By John Bedard
The press email I was sent with this album states that Detritus draws inspiration from Metallica, Megadeth and Slayer. Huge bands. Monsters in the music industry that pretty much everyone knows and loves. There is just one problem. I am one of the strange people who don’t like any of those bands. I know, I know, bring out the guillotine I probably deserve it but they just have never been my style. So, with that, I had low expectations for ‘Myths’; however I have been pleasantly surprised. While I do hear the influence of the previously mentioned bands, I have to admit I rather enjoyed this album.
The vocals have an almost spoken-word style to them with some sustain and some variation. There is not a huge range but what range is there is used very well. I love the slight distortion in the tone adding some depth to the experience. We are not blazing new ground here but instead we have a great example of the genre well done. Mark’s vocal style would be right at home next to Metallica or Megadeth. The style is very similar.
Musically we are in a similar vein. The influence is clear with the heavy tight distortion on the guitars. If I had to guess it sounds like a dual rectifier. Don’t quote me on that but I would say the distortion has a similar feeling to that. Continuing with the comparisons Metallica and Megadeth the composition is similar to them as well the majority of tracks are driven by a heavy guitar with somewhat repetitive riffs that just get on the verge of feeling overused but unlike Metallica, they then change it up evolving the track just enough that it does not get repetitive. I think this is where I like Detritus when I not a big fan of their inspiration. There is an evolution that makes the album feel like it is taking me somewhere. There are times when a portion of a track or sometimes a whole track will slow down. The instruments and vocals will clean up, a piano will come into the mix, and there will be this beautiful moment that will contrast the heavier rest of the album. It is a great contrast and gives the experience a lot of depth. It is very well done.
While I did not expect to, all in all, I really enjoyed this album. There is a subtle complexity to it that comes through and makes the whole experience feel rather fulfilling. If you are a fan of the genre this is definitely worth picking up and if the genre is not totally your style give it a shot anyway. I still think you will enjoy your time.
- ‘Myths’ is released on 19 February. You can get your copy HERE.
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