((Thorlock)) - S/T

By Natalie Zina Walschots. This is the debut, self-titled album from ((Thorlock)), who hail from Cape Girardeau, MO. Another band that produced and released their record, ((Thorlock)) was then picked up by upstart indie label Handshake Inc.

By Natalie Zina Walschots. Originally published by Exclaim.


This is the debut, self-titled album from ((Thorlock)), who hail from Cape Girardeau, MO. Another band that produced and released their record, ((Thorlock)) was then picked up by upstart indie label Handshake Inc. for a more comprehensive re-release and promo campaign. There's a little Weedeater influence heard in the spare, thumping drums and buzz-y, reverb-heavy guitar tone, especially in the circular structured "Mississippi Wheelwash." ((Thorlock)), however, are sharper than a lot of their tar-thick compatriots; they have created a Southern rock sludge monster with a skeleton of barbed wire.

This is particularly clear on "Triceratops" ― there's sharpness to their vocal performance, the occasional bright whip-crack of a crash cymbal that keeps you on your toes and prevents the listener from falling into a La Brea Tar Pits sludge coma. This can't be classified as stoner rock because of this bright quality; ((Thorlock)) keep their wits honed to a sharp edge. If you're looking to swallow some doom with the occasional razor blade amidst the thick, congealing feedback, this album is a fine auditory meal.