Review
BLACKLISTERS – BLKLSTRS
Released 23rd April 2012 (Brew Records)
Words: Tom Willmott
It’s always interesting to see what the regional scene is offering by way of musical talent and at the moment west Yorkshire – Leeds to be specific – is producing some strikingly good bands. The new albums from Pulled Apart By Horses and Hawk Eyes have been the highlights of the year so far, and Blacklisters are proving to be another healthy addition to this talent hotspot of the north.
On first listen, the band is – for want of a better word – just outrageous, which equates to nigh on perfect. Take for example, “Club Foot by Kasabian”, which in fact is not a cover from the indie giants, but just a three minute blast of brutal gut-wrenching noise. And more sharp riffs are to be found in tracks like “Swords”, almost matching the pleasingly deranged offerings of hardcore legends Refused. But the record is not just a full- on ear assault. By adding some more slow-paced tracks in the style of Deftones, such as “I Can Confirm” and “Nice Garden”, they reveal their best qualities, whilst remaining ever so venomous. Another standout track comes in the form of “Hero Of China” which with its strangulated vocals is very reminiscent of the first Glassjaw record.
For those of you looking for melodies here, you’ve headed in the wrong direction. Notwithstanding, Blacklisters have undoubtedly provided the most exciting debut record so far this year, and the more people get on board with them, the brighter their future will be. This is definitely one to have on high volume, but not too loud, unless tinnitus is your thing!
