SUPERCHRIST
Headbanger
IndependentTrack listing:
01. Black is Beautiful
02. Built for Sin
03. Electric Penis
04. My Way is the Law
05. Bloody Hell
06. Fuck Like a Priest
07. Wipe You Out
08. Make Them Die
09. Eat the Evidence
10. No Color
On "Headbanger", SUPERCHRIST remind us of the power and passion of classic heavy metal, not to mention how to write a song with hooks and heaviness. Featuring metal journalist and PHARAOH member Chris Black (a.k.a. Professor Black, bass/vocals),along with Ron Rokken (guitar) and V. Dee (drums),"Headbanger" has the kind of sound one can hear from the resurgence of the type of vintage-style metal bands in which labels like Cruz Del Sur specialize. The disc is fueled by a sizeable NWOBHM influence with some punk rock flavoring, a wild 'n' wooly old school MOTÖRHEAD aura, and the group's own penchant for writing memorable melodies.
In listening to "Headbanger" one finds comfort in the familiarity of metal days of old, yet never feels like SUPERCHRIST is merely a retro act. Credit the freshness of songwriting, the purity of the hooks, and the metal pride that seems to permeate every note played. Kicking off with the up-tempo "Black is Beautiful" the late '70s/early '80s MOTÖRHEAD influence becomes immediately apparent, the rocker infinity catchy and rockin' beyond belief. Black's smooth, yet urgent, vocals splendidly complement the vintage playing throughout the album. A very SAXON-esque riff propels "Electric Penis", while Di'Anno-era MAIDEN is heard in some of the riffs/rhythms of the ultra catchy "My Way is the Law" and "Wipe You Out". And give "Fuck Like a Priest" consideration for the best-song-title-of-the-year award, with lyrics about those pesky and penetrating men of the cloth.
Rather than coming off as a classic metal tribute band, SUPERCHRIST injects its own identity into the mix, one rife with raucous, punk attitude and a beer-drinkers-and-hell-raisers vibe. The key to the appeal of "Headbanger" is the trio's ability to toss in the familiar classic metal parts and then fuse them with a punky rock 'n' roll feel. It is refreshing to hear an album like "Headbanger". The throwback influences bring a smile to the face, the melodies get stuck in the brain, and the energy level is sure to get couch-potato asses up and moving. Best of all though, "Headbanger" is great fun. Check it out soon.