Just as some bands who find themselves grouped under the loose banner of metal focus on the theatrical side of things, there are those whose strengths lie with a more direct sound. 36 Crazyfists have always been one such band, and ‘Time And Trauma’, their first release since 2010’s ‘Collisions and Castaways’, sees them continue to lay down intricate and weighty riffs with ease.
The walls of heavy guitar begin immediately with ‘Vanish (We All Disappear)’ and the riffs on ‘11.24.11’ soon follow to add a restless energy to the record. The choppy guitars and time signatures of ‘Sorrow Sings’ result in a breakneck start to the album that sees 36 Crazyfists playing to their strengths.
Unfortunately, the brisk pace means that one of the best songs on the album, ‘Also Am I’, comes along a bit too quickly. Featuring switches in vocal styles as well as an excellent guitar solo it towers above most of the other songs on offer. Whereas those that come before it act as a brilliant build up, the songs that follow largely sound weak in comparison as 36 Crazyfists start to run out of ideas. Although the riffs are as bruising and uncompromising as ever, ‘Time And Trauma’ soon becomes a frustrating listen as they continue to charge through the rest of the album without much variation.
The reluctance to stray too far from familiar territory means that the likes of ‘Translator’ and ‘Silencer’ are fairly forgettable despite Brock Lindow’s ever impressive vocals and it isn’t until ‘Marrow’ that they demonstrate some much needed creativity. The song itself is much more expansive and expressive than any of the other tracks as the added female vocals provide some contrast and texture.
However, as good as ‘Marrow’ is, it can’t dispel the feeling of disappointment that surrounds the album. It may have been hoped that the move to Spinefarm Records and the return of Mick Whitney on bass would give them a new sense of energy, but they only demonstrate it in short bursts. ‘Time And Trauma’ was never likely to see 36 Crazyfists recapture the popularity they enjoyed with the release of ‘A Snow Capped Romance’, but although there’s enough to please the long term fans there’s little to draw new listeners in. 36 Crazyfists may have released seven albums in a career now spanning over twenty years but they desperately need to bring some new ideas with them for album number eight.
CHRIS HILSON