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Raleigh, North Carolina doomsters RISE is a power trio with a twist. At the moment, I'd characterize them as an instrumental power toika, a twin-guitar n' drums monster that takes no prisoners. The disc has bass, but evidently it was supplied by a session guy who's not considered a permanent part of the band. In any case, they've got chops galore, that's for sure. The music is a classic combination of old school doom, such as Place of Skulls and Spirit Caravan, metal from the likes of High on Fire, and classic 70s arena rock such as Thin Lizzy and Deep Purple. You can hear it all in various permutations throughout the songs on this disc, crowned by excellent lead guitar work from Charlie and Chad. There's no doubt about it, these dudes have the ability, the songwriting skills, the look, and the 'tude to go far. Unfortunately, what they don't have is a bass player and a singer. At least as far as I know, though my info may be out of date. Some bands (Pygmies and Karma to Burn come to mind) sound just right as instrumental outfits, and more power to 'em. Call me a hidebound old schooler or whatever, but the doom-soaked songs that RISE write seem to beg for a vocalist. Someone with a classic set of pipes, someone like Wino, Victor Griffin, or Dale Flood would fill the bill quite nicely. And if you're playing tuneage like RISE, you've GOT to have that heavy bottom end bass. OK, I know prime singers and bass wielders don't grow on trees. Believe me, I know. In the meantime, get in on the ground flood and check out these new kids; with a little fleshing out this band will be total killers! |
1. Flame 2. Roll with the Punches 3. Three Wishes 4. Same Blood 5. How's Your DNA Approx. 23 minutes |
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| Reviewed by: Kevin McHugh | ||||