By Flork
I came across Crippled Finger's new album through a recommendation, one of those "have a listen to this sometime, it's super heavy, but you might like it." And so, I found myself searching for it on Spotify and gave it a go. And though it's not quite my genre, I admit that Through the Pain is an amazing example of heavy thrash and death, all with that unique touch of Czech metal that makes the hairs on your neck stand on end.
Formed in 2011, Crippled Fingers has a somewhat strong presence on the Czech hardcore/alternative scene, playing loads of concerts at home and abroad, self-describing the strength of their live shows as "cheeky and hard". In fact, the Prague-based quartet will be playing at the upcoming concert "Fury over Prague" at the Modra Vopice club somewhere in Prague 9 (June 8th), and then less than a week later at the Czech Death Fest on the June 13th. Both shows I'm sure promise to deliver heavy doses of carnal rage and energy that only Crippled Fingers and colleagues like Born to Die and Besna (who I've also reviewed previously) or Massacre and Benediction do best. Let's see if the Florkman's schedule will allow him some time off to spend up in Bohemia and chill at some of these gigs.
Through the Pain is Crippled Finger's third full-length album; they did release an Ep in the past and, as I mentioned above, they tour relentlessly. Released just one month ago, Through the Pain begins on a heavy note, in fact, one of the heaviest notes Crippled Finger are able to hit with Torch, a composition in full throttle that sets the stage for battle. I use this comparison as it's like setting off on a fighter jet, although I'm quite sure I'm wrong with regards to thematics. Nevertheless, it does start with a sonic boom and the album takes off on its hard (and maybe also cheeky) journey.
The songs aren't overly long and the album contains thirty-two and a half minutes of loud and fast music. I particularly like Moshpit Killing Machine and Die Where You Stand, songs that remind me of Rollins Band and early days of hardcore in America during the 1980s, but with the mixing and production of 2024. Lots of throaty prompts and growls as well as great harmony and alternation between vocal styles (heavy growl and singing, kinda like the Beastie Boys, especialy on Stitches and others. Don't get me wrong, it is still extremely hardcore and no way mainstream, and also works magnificently). The musicianship is is also top-notch as the members display theirbest skill and talent to date.
And Mr. Flork's prognosis? This is a rocking album that will surely satisfy all listeners of thrash and hardcore (maybe not so much the Death or Doom crowd, as it isn't ambient nor atmospheric, but I doubt that any goth would feel unwelcome at one of their shows). What's also nice is that they sing in English and thus prove the band is versatile and not restricted to the domestic scene. I think that Through The Pain will be well-received next month at their upcoming shows and will also be well-liked in Germany when they play there later this summer. Definitely a band to keep on your watch list.
No comments:
Post a Comment