Hardcore kids take over the metal world (Glassjaw in general)

Member Name: navidson

Product:	Glassjaw in general
Date:	24/02/09 (19 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Furious rhythms, varied vocal work

Disadvantages: Unfortunate tour cancellations, long period of inactivity

Led by the enigmatic Daryl Palumbo, Glassjaw burst onto the metal scene with their explosive debut 'Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Silence' - In a genre and time period ruled by Korn and Deftones, Glassjaw stood apart due to the hardcore sounding elements contained within the band - They were just apeing Iron Maiden riffs (Hello, Avenged Sevenfold) or wearing tracksuits, they were channelling the spirit of bands such as Youth of Today, Gorilla Biscuits and Minor Threat into progressive, aggressive mini-epics. Songs such as 'Siberian Kiss' and 'Ry Rys Song' were brutally schizophrenic, switching from raging vocals to melodic flourishes in the next beat - The band also courted controversy over the lyrics of Palumbo on this record, with some people finding them misogynistic. This is a matter of opinion, as i can understand where people would be offended, but it doesnt offend me personally.

Their follow up album 'Worship and Tribute' expanded on the original sound - Throwing in new elements of funk and psycheadelia alongside the original rage - and there is still plenty of that apparent, 'Tip Your Bartender' and 'Stuck Pig' are two of their most aggressive songs. The first single 'Cosmopolitan Blood Loss' is Glassjaw at their most accessible, with Vincent Gallo music video to boot. It seems that most fans are not keen on the track 'Radio Cambodia' but its one of my personal favourites, a breakneck romp linked to 9/11.

The ongoing struggle with Crohns Disease for Daryl Palumbo has meant that touring (especially in the UK) has been a problem, with innumerate tour dates cancelled due to illness. The band are currently in the process of recording their eagerly awaited third album, which will be completed as soon as side projects and other matters are finished with.

The rock world needs Glassjaw back, and we await them with baited breath.

Summary: Classy, varied metal from angry young men