New Keepers of the Water Towers - Chronicles
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New Keepers of the Water Towers are evidently the world’s only band whose lyrical theme is “Dwelling Beasts.” Chronicles (MeteorCity, 2009), the band’s full-length debut, has songs about a “Giant Subway Beast,” “The Strafing Lobster,” and “The Knowledgeable Kangaroo.” “The knowledgeable kangaroo is resting in his den / The evil scientists have come to claim the land” — love it!
Despite their “no American would write them” lyrics, these Swedes whip up spot-on American-style stoner metal. This is not normally my bag, but the songwriting is so good that I keep returning to it. “Pursuit of Yeti” is a monster of a tune, with a big riff that would make High on Fire jealous. Tasty guitar harmonies pay homage to Thin Lizzy and NWOBHM. These are real songs with real melodies. The performances are swinging and honest; the production is raw and crisp. While heavy, the guitars aren’t too overdriven, leaving room for thick, soulful vocals. Good songs are good songs, no matter the genre. These Swedes have them in spades.
Buy:
Amazon (CD)
Amazon (MP3)
eMusic (MP3)
All That Is Heavy (CD)
