In short time, Metanoia has cranked out three albums of tight grindcore. Playing together and writing this much material together is definitely going to force you to gel as a unit. When these guys fire through their dual rhythm licks, you know someone's been practicing. And they're right in the pocket with the drummer and bassist. While the low, grindy vocals will scare some hard music hybridists away, Metanoia's music is capable of keeping their attention. From the sound of the title track, it appears that maybe Mortification's love for classic metal has rubbed off on Metanoia, but only a little bit.
An interesting standout cut is "Now Listen Up" (also featured on this issue's Hard Music Sampler), which brings grindcore vocals into the funky groove territory of "Tourniquet playing a Pantera song." Very weird. Another unexpected moment is the anthemic "Feel The Fire," which includes a guest vocal done straight up. The last two songs are different as well. "Blyth" reminds me of a classic metal instrumental; and "Lucifer's Fire" whispers along vocally, leaving me expecting to hear a black metal vocal come screaming in.
The improvement in sonics jump slightly, but not as much as the jump from In Darkness Or In Light to Don't Walk Dead. Mark McCormack does a great job dialing in the guitar and drum sounds. The vocals are crisp when Yowie isn't growling low, like the shout responses in "Offensive." This and "Corpse" are, in my humble opinion, probably the best songs on the disc. I just really like the vocal sound and groove. I'd have to say that this is now my favorite of the three Metanoia albums.
Other coverage for this album
Art for the Ears 1999Reviewed by Marco PovervestIf you take a look at the picture on the cover, you know it's time to die indeed for the old man painted. This is bizarre! I don't think Methushalem ever looked so bad! Judging by the cover you can expect deathmetal. That's true and more: There is blackmetal attached plus grindcore. The first song, Smashed, fits the grindcore category with fast drumming and screaming grunts and shrill noises. The…
