French power rock act Overcharger has been around since 2010. Since then, they have been working on their unique blend of dirty rock 'n' roll and powerful riff-loaded groove metal. In 2013, they released a first ep, now followed by this debut full-length. If you are a nineties kid, nostalgic for the groovy but rough sound of Pantera, Corrosion Of Conformity or Crowbar, this certainly is something you need.
Opening with the brilliant rocker 'Chainsaw Kiss', this album immediately takes a stand. I can hear flashes from Southern rock (especially in 'Hidden By The Moon'), , country music combined with thrash metal ('I Was A Soldier'), stoner rock ('Outlaw') sludge and good old heavy metal. In a way, songs like 'Don't Let Go Lazy Bitch' or 'Down South' feel like the lovechild of Motorhead and White Zombie, not pretty to look at but a very welcome addition to your headbanging needs.
Unlike many French bands, Overcharger clearly shows an international sound, obviously inspired by many American Southern rock bands. The whole feels like the soundtrack to a sick desert horror movie where people are being tormented in the blistering heat of the sun. Again, not a pleasant sight, but I guess that's why I like soundtracks more than their respective movies. Perhaps they leave a bit more to the imagination, who knows, but 'Streets Of Terror' is kinda inspiring in that aspect.
Anyway, I wouldn't be surprised to see these guys on rock festivals, metal festivals and stoner rock gatherings such as Desertfest or Roadburn. Their sound would fit in nearly everywhere, which obviously is a good thing. I'm also sure that many audience members will go completely nuts on this. This is perfect drinking music with plenty of groove and plenty of power. If you're a fan of any of the bands I mentioned here, you really don't want to miss out of this one...
Serge