A first EP that is impressive and should interest a lot of people
Date: Feb 2008
Publisher: VS Webzine
Written by: Arnaud
Do not be misled by the gnome, because the music of Zonderhoof is far from
being merry, quite to the contrary. This group originating in England, plays
an instrumental music that's resolutely Heavy.
To tell the truth the cover of this EP is a true paradox so much so that the first measurements of "Bilge Rat" want themselves threatening and plunge us into a spiral of blackness. This first pieces strongly recalls Neurosis by the oppressive side but also in the evolution of the piece, just as discrete the samples which bring truly bring something extra.
They begins from a fort good manners, and one continues with "Varkens" and his riffs always so heavy which strikes us. Useless to pass under silence influence from High On Fire, so much this piece with intro conquering (and the solo while one is there), would not have sounded out of place on an album featuring Matt Pike. Throbbing and completely hypnotic.
That corresponds well to the end of "All Your Witches And Bitches", where during more than 3 minutes, the group takes a malicious pleasure in repeating same the riff, and this, without the trouble not pointing the end of its nose. Guaranteed effect, that beats you in the head little by little, this is testing and wonderful at the same time. The fans of Melvins will appreciate.
It finishes with the very heavy "Zub", that carries on in a similar way if not some passages are more mind-blowing or more short-lived. The mood always also flippante, to render you insane. I also could quote their compatriots Capricorns, although the music of Zonderhoof is more monolithic.
They plays well (especially the drummer who does not hesitate to vary his game), the pieces are well constructed but especially they manage to maintain the attention of the listener and this in spite of the repetitive aspect which forms part of the trip. Not something necessarily obvious when one makes the choice to play a completely instrumental music.
It's a pity that the influences are a little too perceptible, but while it is delightful so many heaviness associated to this so dark mood. A first EP that is impressive and should interest a lot of people, sharply the continuation.
(7/10)
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