Released: 2015
Genre: Progressive, Post punk
Sounds Like: At The Drive In, Wildlights
Strong fucking debut from the Cleveland, Ohio threesome. Bloodlines flows without any clots as the band’s chemistry and intelligent song structure dominate after the first rotation. Successive rotations further engulfed us into a aggressive landscape highlighting the trio’s penchant for contrast of the heavy with majestic high arching melodies. We do hear quite a bit of post-punk/hardcore influences from Mars Volta to At The Drive In along with splashes of progressive rock fretwork visions. Ultimately this is a very tight and diverse album for just 30 minutes of airplay.
Track Listing:
1. … (2:40)
2. Reboot (3:46)
3. S.O.S (5:26)
4. Into the Unknown (4:21)
5. Mindfuct (4:16)
6. Algorithm (4:34)
7. Path of Tonality (5:35)
Standout Track:
The closer, "Path of Tonality" absolutely floored us at the onset. The unique fretwork and all encompassing rhythms are blissfully intertwined. This track reminds us of the majestic ways of Wildlights and ASG, where the listener is transformed and the melodies burst with each additional listen. Check-out the brilliant high pitched guitar pinpoint precision on this one. This track will bleed from your woofers its so standout.
Adult Beverage Pairing:
Bloodlines goes superbly with Noble Beast Brewing Company’s ‘Muder Ballads’ 8% ABV from Cleveland Ohio delivers aromas of roasted malts, milk chocolate, hints of plum and cherry and a bit of earthy hops. Has a slightly crisp, smooth and slightly frothy, medium bodied mouthfeel with moderate carbonation. The finish is clean, and it has a fairly dry and roasty aftertaste. A perfect pairing with the heavy tones of City of the Dead.
RECAP:
Captivation and Variety
9.2 out of 11
Vocal Performance
8.9 out of 11
Weight of the Heavy
9.2 out of 11
Hallucinogenic levels
8.8 out of 11
Fretwork Prowess
9.6 out of 11
Overall Album Flow
9.3 out of 11
Contrast
9.1 out of 11
Album Cover Aesthetics
8.9 out of 11
Production Value
9.1 out of 11
Band Members:
Elliot Barry -Guitar/Vocals
Chad Martin -Bass/Moog/Vocals
Daniel Garrity-Drums
Final Thoughts:
We like the fact that we have difficulty pinning down the genre that fits City of the Dead. This is a sign that the band is original and pulls in multiple influences to form their own heavy sound. This album will paint a consistent mood for the listener and their chemistry bleeds into a unique sound and vibe. Grab this one immediately off BandCamp. It is currently a ‘Name Your Price’ and well worth throwing some hard earned money their way.