POGO – July 4, 2020
Portland “noise rock” that gets you moving
I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first queued up the album “Curse” by ILS (released July 4, 2020 on POGO). Described as “noise rock” and “disaster chic,” I was more or less ready for anything. What I got has taken me a bit to digest if you will. Listening to it again while I type this up, there are a few things that really jump out.
The musicianship is impressive to say the least. Nate Abner’s guitar swirls over staccato vocals before dropping down to a distorted assault. The vocals vary in style and quality from lower, almost melodic, to high pitched screams, and a couple of tones in between that are a bit tougher to describe. Tim Steiner’s drumming cuts through everything else at times with the emphasis of gunfire. With all that said, what really stood out for me was the bass. My first listen of the album was through cheap earbuds while working out, and even through those the basslines stood out. Distorted and heavily present, Adam Pike’s playing is one of the highlights of the album. This is, of course, a matter of taste, but I love when heavier bands have the bass notably in the mix.
“Curse,” the title track, is without exception, my favorite track from the album. In part, this is due to the previously mentioned bass on this song (so much better when listened to through a decent set of headphones); however, the whole band comes together on this track. Each band member is showcased at some point in the song. Another big reason why I like this song so much is that there is a quality to vocalist Tom Glose’s voice that is reminiscent of the late Dave Brockie (Oderus Urunguns) of Gwar. This is also evident on other tracks such as: “Noose,” “Casket Race,” and “It’s Not Lard, But Its’ a Cyst;” and I absolutely mean this to be the highest of compliments.
Initially, “Curse” comes across as a loud and aggressive album that works well as background music while working out. On subsequent listens, the complexity of the music and varied vocal quality comes through, and leaves the listener appreciating the individual talents as well as the cohesiveness of the band as a whole. For those times where you need something a bit heavier, “Curse” will certainly do the trick.
Writer and lover of music, horror, and beer.
