Bands that fit within certain styles (e.g. hardcore, death metal, etc.) or that maintain certain beliefs (e.g. Christian, straight edge, etc.) can sometimes influence each other so much that the ultimate sound is all the same. How many times listening to a new band does one say, “That sounds like band A, B, or C” Too often is the answer. However, then there is the argument of whether or not a band can truly create something original, or if they are simply rehashing what has been done too often. On the other hand, every now and then a band comes along whose influences are clearly worn on their sleeves, yet the finished product is different. The ultimate sound and style of the band might not be completely unique, but the blending of influences is, and it is definitely worth listening to. Analog is one of those bands.
Upon listening to their newest offering "The Contention," many influences shine through the band’s heavily metal-influenced hardcore sound.Zao prominently appears in Analog’s breakdowns with various bands such as Unearth, Keelhaul, and even Metallica being heard throughout the recording. As said before though, Analog as a whole does not sound like they are mimicking other bands. Their blending of sound and ideas are what makes "The Contention" worth listening to.
The recording itself has a very (ironically) warm analog sound to it. Production-wise, "The Contention" is reminiscent of Coalesce albums.That is to say every instrument and voice on the recording is clearly heard and understood, yet is rough enough to demonstrate just enough of the band’s powerful potential in a live setting. The rumbling bass and destructive twin guitar approach is heavy, to say the least.Progressively, the band will allude to moments of calm before erupting into chaotic fury without warning. The beginning of the album is a deceptively melodic instrumental which is thoroughly ravaged by the dissonant chords of the second track.
As most hardcore bands are guilty of creating little difference between breakdowns in various songs, so too is Analog. If only listening to the chugging-squeal-chugging-squeal breakdowns of each song, one would have to constantly monitor the CD player’s display to determine what track is currently playing. However, it is the more subtle melodic moments that intersperse these breakdowns that differentiate the songs of Analog. Sometimes these melodies aren’t played quite as precisely as they should be, but the potential is there for future releases to be powerful additions to the hardcore scene.
Bottom Line: Overall, this is a solid release. It would have been better if more songs were offered, as "The Contention" is quite short, with the first and last instrumental tracks not being what most listeners would consider to be completely substantial songs.Fans of Christian-influenced hardcore/metal bands like Zao and Norma Jean should take note of Analog, as well as any fan of hardcore and metal looking for something that is heavy, energetic, and full of potential. Hopefully Analog is characteristic of the entire Omaha scene, because past Omaha alumni like 311 just aren’t cutting it. |
