One definition of Chaos Theory states that a very small occurrence can produce unpredictable and sometimes drastic results by triggering a series of increasingly significant events. This seems like an apt description of the band with the same name. First you have the formation of the band. After that came the addition of lead singer Johnny Rock and bass player Mike Reddog. Then came the release of this EP; The Art of War. This ever increasing chain of events can only lead to a dramatic upheaval in the world of rock and roll.
Arising out of the Detroit landscape that is depicted being blown up on the album cover, these guys are as gritty and tough as any band from the area. They tell me that their name comes from the idea of creating chaos and then making that theory a reality. All you have to do is see the audience at one of their shows and you can tell the guys have accomplished their mission. The Art of War captures the power of their live show and by the end of the disc you might be glad that there are only six songs, as more just might be dangerous to the nervous system! I for one though, am willing to take the chance when they do put out a full length CD. The Art of War is one of the most energy filled metal discs that I have come across. One goal the guys have is to put Detroit back on the rock and roll map. There is little doubt that this will come to pass also, but with an asterisk next to it that says "The home of Chaos Theory".
When the first song "Fake" takes off with Johnny giving you a patented wail to announce that they have arrived, the whole band kicks in and the Chaos begins! This is no ordinary screamer you hear. The guy, who acquired the nickname "The Mic Melter" from Detroit legend George Neal of Halloween, is much more than the average metalcore wailer. When they kick into the song "S.A.D." Johnny gives you a taste of his powerful singing voice before kicking you hard with his screaming ability. The dramatic effect when he lets loose is pure gold. There is no way that these guys are going to remain Michigan's little secret for long.
Johnny doesn't do it all by himself though. It is a real team effort with the power line-up that backs Mr. Mic Melter. The guitar duo of Scott and Joe Fucko are as tight together as any pair. They seem to know just what the other is going to do and compliment each other with every riff and solo. This is the kind of teamwork that is as much a part of the band as the music. With the guy called Prick on drums giving much more than the run of the mill stick work and Mike "Reddog" reminding all that listen, that this is true headbanging music with his powerful bass lines, this is a band that gels as well as any. They also do it in there own way. There is something special and unique in both the music and the dynamo that fronts them.
The Art Of War is Detroit metal at its finest. Chaos Theory lives and breathes rock and roll. If they are not playing, you are just as apt to see them out supporting other local bands. I came across Chaos Theory, on a bill with 4 other groups. They blew me away! I can't see them doing anything but headlining shortly as any band that follows them has a tough row to hoe!
When I looked at this disc after listening to it, I was shocked to see that it is only 22 minutes long. I had such a workout it felt like I had been 15 rounds with these guys! This is a package that will whet the appetite. It begs for a full release and I certainly hope we get it in the near future. I don't know if an EP can be named album of the year but this one is most definitely on my top 10 list!
Track listing:
1. Fake
2. S.A.D
3. Misery
4. Collapse
5. Warfare
6. God's Hand
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