I had high hopes for
this album; although I didn't rate the first APC
outing, there were enough moments of true quality to give
me hope that once they really got down to some proper song
writing they would come up with the goods. Actually, "composing" would
be a better word - this really is music as art, not just
your everyday verse/chorus/verse stuff. This album is an
exercise in power without volume, and all the instruments
excel. 2nd track and first single "Weak and Powerless" is
a perfect example - there is barely a distorted guitar
in earshot, but you wouldn't notice such is the artistry
and sincerity with which the song is played. The drumming
really is superbly inventive and perfectly judged for the
mood, the guitars wrap around you warmly and vibrate you,
the bass bounces along sounding immense all the time, all
while Maynard James Keenan spends his time singing like
some sort of depressed angel only beginning to use his
range when it's absolutely required and for maximum effect.
Other standout tracks are the hauntingly beautiful "Noose" and "Vanishing",
and "The Outsider" (one of only three tracks
which really feature any distorted guitar) where APC come
as close to the full alt-rock glory of "Judith" from
the first album as anywhere on 13th Step.
Not that they're trying. "Less is more" seems to be the order of the
day, and this admirable restraint allows an emptiness and space in the overall
sound for each player's input to really shine. So when things do happen, you
notice them. Nevertheless, I am still left with a slightly disappointed feeling
after listening to this album several times. There is a sense that the band are
in some ways trying a little too hard to be alternative, despite their dedication
to craftsmanship. Weird interlude "Crimes", for example, serves no
purpose I can see other than to say "we can do odd little soundscapes if
we want". Fair enough, but if it's not good then what's the point?
Next
d |
|
