Gun Boat But the Machine Demands Blood LP
In a mean world, making meaner music can be a loving act. This leans into the most metallic early days of grunge while turning a corner into near-industrial rhythmic cruelty, all with echoing chaotic vocal delivery. It’s an impressive package to couch one’s hate for a world gone wrong for a very long time, and cathartic as hell. The riffs, bolstered by excellent production, are thick as bloody steaks and often catchy, too. But catchy doesn’t temper the anger on display here. This is righteously pissed-off, inspiringly so. A singular mission of anger that comforts an unquiet heart in the maelstrom. It even has some heady space out moments that contribute beautifully to the overall rhythm and flow, especially on the throbbing track “Cut Your Hand and I’ll Cut Mine,” which nearly goes full HAWKWIND. Overall, an eye-opener that satisfies right down to the teeth.