![]() If anything the songs on Frail Bray are just as intense, if not more so than the ones on Cognicide, Tremulous, or any of their EP’s. According to the track-by-track article lead vocalist Jason Hall did with, “ the goal of was to make a big, bright hardcore-punk, rock and roll record.” And I’m happy to report that the band accomplished said goal - really, they hit a grand slam with this one.įirst off, it should be made very clear that just because Western Addiction went for a brighter sound, that does not in any way mean that they went softer. Three years later, the Bay Area punk rockers are back with their new full-length, Frail Bray and they have taken a different approach this time around. Tunes like “Righteous Lightning,” “The Rockery” (my favorite song of 2017 in general), and especially the ending track “Your Life Is Precious” really exemplify the melancholy sound of that record. There is no denying that it is very dark, even by hardcore standards. Western Addiction’s sophomore album Tremulous was easily one of the best albums to come out in 2017. Tremulous is a dark, severe album which punk needs in this current climate.By Denise Borders 0 Album Review: Western Addiction “Frail Bray” After seeing what Matt could do with my vocals, I was blown away.”Īchieved. “They’re a hardcore band, but it sounds so big and well-produced. “The inspiration for Tremulous was From Ashes Rise’s Nightmares, which Matt produced,” vocalist Hall says. Bayles brings a frantic and vibrant sound to their music. Western Addiction recruited Matt Bayles to mix, Bayles has worked with noise metal bands such as Isis, Botch, and Mastodon. Produced by Joey Cape, they remain three OG members plus one new guy. The band is Jason Hall on vocals, Ken Yamazaki (also of Dead To Me) on guitar and Chad Williams on drums, as well as Tony Teixeira on guitar. Angry and noisy, with a few breaks of settled rhythms, the LP is produced cleanly while still embracing the snarl and grit which boast undeniable angst and energy. ![]() There are quieter moments which allow the album to breathe. Musically caustic, most tracks confront and thrive to be unsettling. ![]() “You’re cynical, is what they say / How could there be any other way?!” is a classic line. This track happens to house the nastiest bass work on the album, having a spastic fit. The Descendents comparison shines brightly on multiple songs musically and vocally, especially on “Red Emeralds” and the “Taedium”. Tremulous is a strong salute to Adolescents, Circle Jerks, Black Flag and Descendents. The bass work truly elevates the music which adores the forefathers of ’80s West Coast hardcore. Critical social and political statements elevate this from just the fun punk to boost at a party. But, this is harsh hardcore and not just redundant pop punk. They can certainly grab onto a riff and be catchy. Western Addiction has consistently stood out. Gritty basslines are the foundation for ire filled tracks.įat Wreck Chords has been repetitive in its wheelhouse, over saturated with common bands who sound alike to me. Gruff vocals definitely add the punch needed for this band’s sharp delivery. Tremulous is a beefy return after eleven years, a grenade in the current climate. But, I felt the rest of the album, save “The Church of Black Flag”, just fell short to a solid but average punk record. Their debut, Cognicide, had a stand out track that lured me, “When A Good Friend Attacks” – phenomenal track. Those words describe Tremulous rather well, to boot. “Clatter and Hiss” opens the album with piss and fire.
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