industrial metal
A bit over two years ago, I reviewed an album by French industrial metal combo Last Avenue'. Back then, I was already amazed by their convincing sound and I gladly added 'Integration Protocol' to my collection. Now I can add their latest work too. Titled 'Identity', it shows a well attuned, stubborn and hard working band, one that has grown a lot.
The customary elements remain. This album is still loaded with thrash metal and hardcore inspired riffs, infectious electronics and a rather post apocalyptic atmosphere. Acts like Pain, Fear Factory, Senser and Clawfinger still come to mind.
I think the main difference between 'Identity' and 'Integration Protocol' is the overall heaviness. The music seems to be harsher and more intense but equally immersive. Headbanging is an absolute must to songs like 'We Run' and 'Edgeless Life'. The latter also seems to showcases some progressive rock influences, which makes the whole thing even more interesting and varied. Variation enough, which might be expected if the references go from The Prodigy to Samael and everything in between.
'Partials', the so-called "ballad", even nudges towards the witchhouse/trip hop scene. Maybe it's a bit of an outsider on this album but nonetheless a great song. In fact, it might be one of my favorites, but my favorites often deviate from other people's. Another favorite is the smasher 'Neon Animals' which is simply a pounding industrial metal song in the best possible meaning of the word. Oh well, I guess we'll have to face it. Last Avenue is one of the most interesting industrial bands around and it's about time they conquer Europe with this sound.
Serge
The customary elements remain. This album is still loaded with thrash metal and hardcore inspired riffs, infectious electronics and a rather post apocalyptic atmosphere. Acts like Pain, Fear Factory, Senser and Clawfinger still come to mind.
I think the main difference between 'Identity' and 'Integration Protocol' is the overall heaviness. The music seems to be harsher and more intense but equally immersive. Headbanging is an absolute must to songs like 'We Run' and 'Edgeless Life'. The latter also seems to showcases some progressive rock influences, which makes the whole thing even more interesting and varied. Variation enough, which might be expected if the references go from The Prodigy to Samael and everything in between.
'Partials', the so-called "ballad", even nudges towards the witchhouse/trip hop scene. Maybe it's a bit of an outsider on this album but nonetheless a great song. In fact, it might be one of my favorites, but my favorites often deviate from other people's. Another favorite is the smasher 'Neon Animals' which is simply a pounding industrial metal song in the best possible meaning of the word. Oh well, I guess we'll have to face it. Last Avenue is one of the most interesting industrial bands around and it's about time they conquer Europe with this sound.
Serge
