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Written by Marc Farr Sunday, 23 November 2014 13:44

It would be prudent for the band to define and hone in on its true sound, because if this is it, it leaves much to be desired.

 

 

 

Progressive-hardcore act Xerxes has released its newest album, Collision Blonde. Composed of Will Allard (guitar), Joseph Goode (bass), Ben Sears (drums), and Calvin Phillips on vocals, the band lacks originality, falling in with most of the acts in their genre. While lyrically baroque, the production here is somewhat sloppy, and most of the guitar riffs meld together.

Vocally, the monotonous screaming wears thin quickly. Phillips sounds better when sporting a more punk, Johnny Rotten–type vocal. With the lack of tightness and good production values, the result is a tinny sound, with overbearing vocal tracks.

Though it seems the band members are proficient on their instruments, it takes a good producer to mold the sound of an album, something that is missing here. The material in itself is competent, but badly executed. Songs such as “Knife” and the title track are almost lyrically poetic, but set against on overly aggressive background.

If Xerxes is to make a name for itself, it would be prudent for the band to define and hone in on its true sound, because if this is it, it leaves much to be desired. A proven producer in the genre would be a terrific asset to this band. Until then, it is basically your run-of-the-mill hardcore. D | Marc Farr