Release Date: May 24th 2013
Diablo Strange formed in 2010 in an aim to make old school heavy metal with a modern twist, and in 2012 released a six track EP (get it here as a free download http://diablostrange.bandcamp.com/album/diablo-strange-ep ).
Now comes their sophomore release, the amusingly titled Sordid Tales , eleven tracks of catchy stoner rock that puts one in mind of the likes of Red Fang and mid period Orange Goblin, particularly Thieving From The House Of God. Opener 'Brown Paper Bag' is an infectious,boogie tinged number which comes off like a drunker , less verbose Clutch, while the likes of 'The Drifter' and 'Borrowed Time' rock along on a raucous , whisky steeped groove.
So far ,so good then, but the problem with Diablo Strange is this: while by and large this is a strong collection of songs , and the band are clearly strong musicians and tight players, there are very few moments on the album that'll really reach out and grab you as being something special.That's not to say there aren't a few belters on here,there are: 'Evolution' being one highlight, a Goblin-esque stomper with a killer chorus,or the more melodic 'Greed', which has guitarist Marty Surette playing a blinder while frontman Matt Cormier dispenses with the throaty howl to reveal a surprisingly fine singing voice.
At the end of the day though, there's something just a little mannered about Sordid Tales. There's no doubt that it's an enjoyable listen, but it's not really one I can see myself returning to too often.The production is competent but not as aggressive and punchy as this kind of music demands, and the songs, while catchy and well played, aren't hugely memorable.A fun listen, but maybe not anything that'll blow your mind.
Rating: 6.5/10
For fans of :Clutch, Orange Goblin, Triggerman, Grifter, The Gentlemen Bastards
Bandcamp: http://diablostrange.bandcamp.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiabloStrange?fref=ts
Stephen
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