Bottomfeeder - II

Bottomfeeder went and did it again.

Last year, this group came out of what seemed like nowhere with their widely acclaimed demo. This was a debut that garnered so much attention that instead of waiting for new material to be created, labels Get This Right Records (US) and World vs Cometh (Europe) wasted no time in pressing those songs to vinyl. This is a true testament to the quality of their craftsmanship, even at such an early stage.

Here we are a year later... and the boys are back with four brand new tracks of scathing, volatile metallic hardcore. At first listen, it is obvious that this is a band that has not missed a beat at all. These songs, while very much still Bottomfeeder, are carving a their own new niche through metal and hardcore. This is a trail that had previously been traversed by legends like All Out War, Merauder and Ringworm... but it is a path that has been much less traveled in recent years.

One of most obvious improvements over the previous material is the incorporation of a second guitar player and songwriter in the form of Len Carmichael (Hammerhead, ex My Turn To Win). His input into the writing process coupled with time to grow as a unit appears to have pushed the material into a new realm in regards to its riff variety and song orchestration. The songwriting on this release itself is more mature and focused that that of the demo material. That is saying a lot because I personally felt that their demo was of a quality that could have been equal to a release from any seasoned veteran band of the same ilk.

On II, those familiar with their former release may also note an increase in urgency and ferocity in Wren's vocals. I really think his performance on the last record was a breath of fresh air in a world where most hardcore vocalists are a piss poor copy of a copy of a copy... but here he has really settled into his role and is excelling on a new level as a stellar lyricist.

Another point worthy of note is the fantastic production value. Both the previous work and this record were handled by guitarist Len Carmichael, but there is a real clarity to this mix that was missing from the demo. Both guitars occupy their own distinct space in the mix. This is also something that greatly benefits what I feel to be one of the better rhythm sections in modern hardcore. The drums and bass on this recording are exceptional and I wish more bands would emphasize their importance in their own musical endeavors.

The bottom line is that Bottomfeeder is just flat out mean in every possible way and they just keep getting better. I really can't wait to hear what they do next.



Standout track: Anonymous

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