HERO DESTROYED

Formed in 2005, Pittsburgh's HERO DESTROYED enlisted the help of Eric Klinger (BLOODCLOT, ex-PRO-PAIN) and recorded this self-titled EP at Klinger Studios, self-releasing it in 2007. Based on a recommendation from DON CABALLERO, Relapse Records saw fit to sign the band and re-release the EP to a worldwide audience. The album's technical, hardcore-ish sound proved a good fit on the Relapse roster, though it would seem that the band has not quite reached its potential, as the EP, though a decent effort, sounds awfully familiar. The upcoming full-length may see the band fleshing out its sound.

If nothing else, HERO DESTROY have created an album with a sound that is street-brawling tough and sonically punishing, recalling acts like BURNT BY THE SUN, CONVERGE (big surprise, right?),and SWARM OF THE LOTUS, at times also vaguely reminiscent of early MASTODON (some of the diesel-powered rhythms in particular). Aside from the aforementioned Relapse "style," the EP is the kind of product that a label like Goodfellow loves to release — unconventionally structured, gnarly, and hardcore-based. The combination of Pat McNicholas' powerful bark, AJ Falcione's ridiculously percussive drumming, the shape shifting riffs and dissonant licks of guitarists Zach Moore and Jeff Turko, and the thick, clattering bass of Dustin Newman often overwhelms with its intensity. Klinger's production brings out the rawness required of the style and the clear instrument separation works to the band's advantage, as the member interplay is part and parcel to the approach.

HERO DESTROYED does play it like they mean it, the conviction coming through loud and clear. Fans of the style should get a fair degree of listening enjoyment out it, although it may be short-lived. Not inspiring, but pretty solid.