Crank this to 8.9 of 11
Released: 2020
Genre: Metal, Sludge
Sounds Like: ISIS, Eyehategod, Nailbomb
Ex-members of -(16)- and Goatsnake have joined forces to form the California based drudgery of Keverra. Two very tough acts to follow, both with very unique dark brooding sounds. The result, an impressive dive into caustic reality. The self-titled debut is filled with biting riffs that deliver incredibly full sound along with dramatic change-ups and contrast.
Terrific production highlights the intricate percussive work by Mateo that is well-supported by a rich and dark brooding bass-line. Kurk’s lead guitar provides some interesting melodic angles that blend well with subtle industrial backdrops. Vocally Kurk personifies a blend of Al Jourgensen (Ministry) with clarity and the likes of Aaron Turner (ISIS) and Mike Williams (Eyehategod). We have never been fans of the short interludes between songs, but this approach is not too annoying.
Track Listing:
1. Albion (5:18)
2. Incendiare (:42)
3. Bathsheba (6:08)
4. Anaesthetic (:34)
5. Tiooa (4:34)
6. Bitter Air of Exile (2:42)
7. Object to Be Destroyed (5:25)
8. Funerary (1:01)
9. No God (4:51)
10. Black Tie Event (4:46)
Standout Track:
"Bathsheba" has some incredible dark melodies that will stay with you. So much dramatic contrast that catches our fancy on this one.The track delivers the emotion and fervor that harkens back to Wavering Radiant days.
ROTATION RECAP:
Captivation and Variety
8.7 out of 11
Vocal Prowess
8.8 out of 11
Weight of the Heavy
9.3 out of 11
Fretwork Prowess
8.7 out of 11
Bass Undercurrent
8.7 out of 11
Originality
8.5 out of 11
Overall Album Flow
8.7 out of 11
Contrast
9.0 out of 11
Album Cover Aesthetics
8.5 out of 11
Production Value
9.4 out of 11
Final Thoughts :
A solid debut indeed for the LA trio. Fans of Goatsnake or -(16)- may not get the unique sounds of the past but Keverra shows some very likable chemistry. Give this one a gander and add it to your dark sludge metal collection ( a name your price on BandCamp believe it or not).
Line-up:
Kurk: Guitars, Vocals, Noise
Scott: Bass
Mateo: Drums, Vocals, Samples