Ok, so I know Ive been on all issue, and previous ones, about getting behind UK bands etc, but now Im allowed to be a hypocrite again. so its the American band alert again.
So anyway, Zebrahead. This is really a bastard, cos half the things that I usually whinge about are contained within this band. So I should hate them. And I dont. Far from it. Theyre bloody good.
Anyway, details that I know are that they are a five piece formed in 1996, the music is a blend of hardcore, hip-hop etc. Well, like I said, you know the score. But somewhere in here is something different that just manages to set them apart as far as Im concerned.
Anyway, what I have is a self-titled CD. Comes in a yellow case. None more Yellow anyone? Anyway, I should stop using the word anyway. But anyway, its basically 10 tracks, the first 8 being demos, the last couple recorded live.
Theres definitely a dollop of Kornesque guitar squeals, but, it gets offset by Mr Bungle like riffs (early Bungle that is). Theres also a hip-hop vocal, probably one of my main gripes these days. But where some bands fall into the trap of only having the one vocal style, Zebrahead overcome by having a second vocalist who has a more rock oriented voice, which offsets things and pacifies me.
And theres other little things that do it. Theres a few drum machine loops.
And topping it all, theres some great catchy songs.
Ah, that important little concept of songs. 10 tracks, 27 minutes. No outstaying the welcome. Which is nice.
Opening track Check, is a prime example of the way the band seems to work. All Korn squeals, hip hop vocals, and then the chorus hits in. The vocal changes, and though I cant figure out the words, its infectious.
Were something, nah nah nah ne nah, were something nah nah nah nah ne nah.
And thats how it continues. The second track, All I Need, sets you up for Maidens run To The Hills with the drum intro. But of course, it never arrives. But because its short, it doesnt outstay the welcome. Just sits in there and makes itself at home in your brain.
But dont expect heavy. It isnt really heavy at all. Just good music. Good songs. Something a few bands have been woefully short of on recent albums.
Another of the standout tracks is Walkaway. Same formula I guess. But it just feels so much fresher than a lot of the other stuff that is perverying the scene at the moment.
So, if youre into the hip-hopy thing Like Limp Bizkit etc, check it out. Except theyre better than the Limp ones.
Not seen it in the shops. I got it from Alices Records, who advertise in Kerrang! MH etc.
Alternatively, check the web site