2010’s “Mechanize” was a resounding success to both fans and
critics alike and marked the beginning of the third era of Fear Factory. After
two years of touring and songwriting, the band would put together the follow up
in the form of “The Industrialist”. Now, when “Transgression” was released,
fans were at worst, hoping it to be “Archetype” 2.0, but were disappointed with
the industrial rock experiment they received. If I had to sum of the comparison
to the bands second comeback album “Mechanize” to their follow up “The
Industrialist” I would say that it is, more or less, Mechanize” 2.0.
Let’s be clear. When I say 2.0, I don’t simply mean that the
songs on “The Industrialist” sound exactly the same as they did on “Mechanize”.
The similarities lie in the song structure and overall atmosphere that the
albums share. Yes, one could argue that many of the songs could easily be
interchangeable from album to album, but for fans of either album I ask; is
that a bad thing? One might say that many 80’s thrash or melodic death metal
share so many similarities within their own catalog that the same interchangeable
aspects could be applied, but we all know that Slayer and Megadeth create
individual albums despite sharing similar traits from album to album.
Perhaps the biggest reason for attaining the 2.0 label, in
my opinion would have to be the fact that Fear Factory were now a two-man
operation. That’s right, this album (main players that is) features only Burton
and Dino. Dino, once again handles the bass and guitar duties and Bell on
vocals, which left one question? Who’s on Drums? Well, the answer would be no
one technically, as the drums on this album would be programmed, but we’ll get
into that soon enough.
“The Industrialist” is a prime example of following a
working formula. I’m reminded of Powerwolf in that, you know the formula of
Powerwolf if you’re a fan and if you are indeed a fan, knowing they follow a
formula isn’t a problem. The music on
“The Industrialist” simply follows the successful formula we saw on
“Mechanize”. Burton’s vocals continue to flourish with his harsh and clean
combination. They are just as powerful and crisp as they were on the previous
album and can easily hook the listener. Dino’s guitars chug along, creating
groove laden riffs and leads that are both energetic and mechanical in nature.
The bass is thick and bouncy, which lends a nice punch when harmonizing with
the other instruments. The song structures are also very formulaic. Songs
follow a harsh and intense set of vocal leads, which build into catchy and
clean choruses that leave a lasting impression. The drums pound away, creating
a wall of sound and rhythm that lend but to the intensity of the album, but
also help deliver the force of each track. Finally, Rhys Fulber and company
once again, add the programming, keyboards and industrial touches that have
always been the band’s shtick. As I
said, everything fits the components of the formula and they fit rather nicely.
Now, I mentioned the drumming and how on this album they
would be programmed. To start, I have heard a number of one-man death and black
metal bands employ the use of a programmed drum machine and while sometimes
it’s so obvious that it becomes almost a hindrance, other times it can sound
seamless. Given Fear Factory’s history of electronics and programming, I was
more than confident that they would be able to handle the task of programming
the drums to meet their needs. I for one prefer a human on the drums, but in a
pinch, programming can get the job done. The result on “The Industrialist” is a
powerful sounding experience, but comes off as soulless. It’s not completely
obvious, but once you hear them, you’ll notice the human touch is missing.
Although it doesn’t take away from the drum’s effect, it certainly doesn’t add
the human magic that Herrera or Hoglan added either. For one album (as Mike Heller would join
shortly after the album’s release) the programming here is acceptable.
Compared to the follow up of Fear Factory’s initial comeback
release (“Transgression”), “The Industrialist” is head and shoulders above said
album. Perhaps the band rested upon the cyber metal formula a little too
heavily on this album, but by this point in the game, they know the style of
music they play, they’re comfortable playing it and have figured out how to
recreate that sound. Again, it works for bands like Powerwolf (whom I love) who
has had excellent success and the formula works just as well here.
Highlights: “The Industrialist” “Recharger” “New Messiah”
Rating: 4.5
No comments:
Post a Comment