iwrestledabearonce play an eccentric blend of mathcore that
takes a variety of sounds, genres and elements and mashes them into one sound.
Sometimes, such a unique and bizarre concept can pay off and sometimes it will
fall flat on its face. I can’t say much for the rest of iwrestledabearonce’s
discography, but on “Ruining it for Everybody” I would say the formula works
for this particular album.
The overall theme on this album is simply to create a
chaotic experience, but making it enjoyable to those who appreciate such chaos.
This style, to a certain degree, is nothing new as bands like The Dillinger
Escape Plan, Between the Buried and Me and Fear Before the March of Flames have
been doing it for some time. The use of harsh and clean vocals, as well as female
singing is present. As are blast beat, technical time shifts, electronic sound
effects, synthesizers etc. Basically, everything but the kitchen sink has been
added into the mix on this album to create music cacophony.
One of the things I enjoyed about this album was, Krysta
Cameron’s voice. Aside from the obvious harsh vocals, I thought her cleans were
beautiful. They were one of the aspects I was looking forward to in each song.
Songs like “Break it Down Camacho” and “You Know That Ain't Them Dogs' Real
Voices” show off her range nicely. As for the rest of the music, it’s hard to
pin point any one aspect that stood out, which is kind of the idea behind this
style, but the drumming and constant shifting of guitar tempos was not only noticeable,
but also well done. To be noticed among the wall of sound must account for something.
For me, this style of comb-noise works in small doses, as
long as it’s catchy and has some kind of memorable qualities to be redeemed. “Ruining
it for Everybody” indeed has its moments. Perhaps not enough for me to say this
is some sort of mathcore masterpiece, but I can’t image fans of the bands I
mention above not at least getting some enjoyment out of this album. It’s bizarre,
but that’s how they wanted it and they accomplished creating the sound they
desired.
Highlights: “You Know That Ain't Them Dogs' Real Voices” “Break
It Down Camacho” “Gold Jacket, Green Jacket”
Rating: 3
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