DOWNTHESUN “S/T”
I gotta admit, having a quote from a SLIPKNOT band member on sticker that accompanies the cover of this disc did not leave a good initial impression. Fortunately though, DOWNTHESUN are their own band, do not need to rely on the laurels of said popular act to create their own sound. For the most part, these guys do the metalcore thing, and they do it quite well, with the exception of a few miscues. The first half of this 12 song, 53 minute release is definitely strong, blasting off with the ripping tune, “Medicated.” With double-bass applenty, guitar triumph in full force, and a vocal style that could probably suck it up dirt off the floor, DOWNTHESUN do come armed with an impressive arsenal. A sludgy element pervades a good deal of tunes on the “S/T” disc, especially on the trashy tune, “Pure American Filth.” As DOWNTHESUN attempt to widen their approach to music with a few slower tunes, or tossing in some electronic additives, that’s when I get a bit edgy over this release as none of it is really necessary. “Listen” reminds me of an older PANTERA tune with it’s clear vocals and stagnant guitars, coasting forward for nearly six minutes. In comparison to their aggro-sensitive moments, I think the band would be much better off sticking to the plan of allowing their music to cut through people. As a means of comparison, perhaps SLAYER wouldn’t be too much of a stretch, as this six-person tandem no doubt has the ability to grind into the listener. But again, inconsistencies in approach make the latter half of this disc barely listenable, and that’s a shame because I’m sure there was some label person telling the band to “change things up a bit.” Oh well.
Roadrunner
