Rough Edge: Beats the Hell Out of Me CD Reviews

BEATS THE HELL OUT OF ME

"Revising History" (Self-released; 2004)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

Beats the Hell Out of Me are one of those bands that you always hear about getting caught up in the dreaded music business red tape, causing the outfit to take a sabbatical before they were even given a chance to grab the brass ring. However, the resilient Arizona quintet has reformed after nearly ten years with "Revising History," an 11-track comeback that displays a band whose musical prowess, superior songwriting, and ability to manipulate sound is second to none.

Falling somewhere between Tool, Life of Agony, and Dredg, BTHOOM has the uncanny dexterity to create intriguing grooves such as "The Promise" as well as muscular rock anthems like "Questions & Answers" and "Move Along" without sacrificing integrity or exerting force.

Atmospheric and laden with tons of prominent hard rock sensibilities (the shame of it all is that these guys fell off the radar for so long) "Revising History" makes up for the absence as a solid reprise for a band that never should have gone away.

For more information, check out www.beatsthehelloutofme.net.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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