REDRUM
‘Songs in The Key Of Dissonance'
RADIO-ACTIVE-MUSIC

Redrum (who are not unique in that moniker) are unique in being one of the few American industrial metal bands of the 90s that slipped under the international radar. While contemporaries (and touring buddies) such as Orgy, Hansel Und Gretyl and Sister Machine Gun have gone on to develop cult followings, Redrum seemed to fold just as their stock was about to rise. With their third album (originally recorded in 2000) now seeing a release it might be safe to say that their previous momentum has dissipated, however the fact that these songs are left to speak for themselves is not necessarily a bad thing.

The classic mix of pulsing synths, catchy but hard guitars and gravely vocals is still a very pleasing mix. Songs like ‘Pure', ‘Love On Venus', ‘Coming To Get Me' and ‘Unlovable' ooze serious cool and hint at what could have been if this album had been released in the early 2000s. Even the slightly tongue in cheek cover of Pink Floyd's ‘In The Flesh' just seems to work really well here too.
Even as an independently produced and released album, the sound quality here is beyond reproach. The album keeps the rawness that gives the guitars and vocals the vitriol they need to play off but it still sounds fresh and contemporary at the same time.

It would be a shame if Redrum were to fade away once more after what is a very promising release that, given the right support, could see them climb to their rightful place as a national act.

[3/5]