VOCO: Walcott Sessions

VOCO is an experimental metal band based out of California. In the band are Alex Young (guitar), Tim Sullivan (drums) and Josh Martin (bass). Guest musicians include Chris U (analog synthesizer) and Joshua Marshall (tenor saxophone). Their new album titled Walcott Sessions was recorded at Cedub Studios, Oakland by Chris Walcott who sadly passed away soon after the album was recorded. The album is dedicated to him.

The power trio certainly makes intense music with much of it being improvised. It sounds immediate and raw so the energy is definitely there. What I found to be difficult is often the songs morph into complete chaos which isn't exactly easy on the ear drums. A prime example is "Hanging Like Bruce Lee" where the pummeling begins right from the start. A few off kilter moments eventually lead into utter and complete disarray where as a listener I found it difficult to enjoy. The short "Chris U" is a moody ambient synthesizer soundscape whereas "MettleWaun" ventures back into guitar centered chaos. The disc's first track "You Still Don't Know How To Talk To People" is an avant-garde metal tune with numerous time changes and whacked out chord progressions but a lack of a solid hook is to the song's detriment. The repeating guitar sequence in "Pieces on Powell" is a little more melodic and I found the piece more coherent than the others but still very challenging. Probably my favourite song on the album.

There is no doubting the intensity and the talent this trio possesses and they certainly do not conform to any typical mold that inhibits many bands. That said, I still need something to hook my brain, at least just a little and that is my biggest issue here. However, your mileage may vary so if you are into avant-garde metal forms by all means check this out.

Track Listing:
1. You Still Don't Know How To Talk To People
2. Egg Cartons
3. Pieces on Powell
4. Hanging Like Bruce Lee
5. Chris U
6. MettleWaun
7. Squandering Your Eggs
8. Gifts From The Alley
9. Crenulated Scarp in Hesperia Planum
10. Most Of Us Are Winners

Added: September 10th 2017
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Facebook Page
Hits: 1248
Language: english

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