CATARACT “Golem”
Continuing the mission of putting out the most sonically destroying records, Ferret has released the debut full length from straight-edge metalcore heroes, CATARACT. This disc is actually a lot more approachable though than most of the Ferret stuff taking on a more start/stop style, consistent with INDECISION or ALL OUT WAR (but soooo much better), rather than say, DILLINGER ESCAPE PLAN or BURNT BY THE SUN. Within two listens, I was hopelessly addicted on the variety fancied here, as the straight-edge, nearly posicore vibe in the lyrics is fantastic, and the energy dished out runs on ultra-premium. For one thing, CATARACT’s drummer is incredible. Besides doing some amazing double bass fills and other off-beat patterns, it’s really the drummer who sets the tone for the songs – although a few guitar solos thrown in does wonders as well. In between the mostly growling vocals, many quick paced “chugga chugga” moments keep things moving along at a humming pace, and only few in a seconds on a seldom breakdown do you get the chance to catch your breath. Another thing that I like with CATARACT is that there are brief explanations, song by song of the messages conveyed, which truly captures the views in which the band is coming from. The artwork is sharp, and focused, and unlike most bands, uses a soft paper base rather than the standard glossy – it’s pretty cool. Of the nine tunes, “Where I Belong,” “Two Seconds,” “Within Four Walls,” and “Coward,” are all absolute killer, and the rest complete the package nicely. For 29 minutes of music, you don’t get much better than this.
Ferret Records
