CLASSIC CASE
"Dress
to Depress" (Fiddler Records / Help Records; 2005 )
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
If you had to pigeonhole them, Classic Case and their "Dress to Depress" probably falls somewhere in the emo category. And they suffer from some of the traits that makes emo so often annoying; sometimes they sound like every other emo band out there.
But what sets Classic Case apart, at least just a bit, is that the band melds melody and aggressive guitar attacks together in a way that makes their CD a little easier on the ears. Sometimes, as on "Sub Rosa," a little too easy. Most of the time, however, "Dress to Depress" takes an aggressive, energetic approach that gives their music additional life. Strong production values help in that department as well.
True, Classic Case are closer to Dredj than, say, Seether. Still, "Dress to Depress" is better than most and that's worth something.
Classic Case: Jared Draughon - vocals / guitar / keyboards; Durijah Lang - drums; Mitchell Marlow - guitar; Eric Mendelson - bass; Josh Moore - guitar / vocals.
For more information, check out http://www.classiccase.net.
"Dress
to Depress" (Fiddler Records / Help Records; 2005 )
Reviewed by Snidermann
Sometimes, it's hard (and seems to be getting harder) to distinguish one band from the other. We have a term for that kind of music here at Rough Edge, "Spongerock."
Being "spongerock" isn't necessarily a bad thing. Some bands fare pretty well with sounding just like other bands out there. The music on "Dressed to Depress" isn't bad, but it has no real bite or edge and, in fact, sounds too much like your average FM radio stuff. The lyrics didn't work for me at all. In fact, sometimes the music was just getting me interested and, when the vocals kicked in with the substandard lyrics, it just threw it all away.
Sorry. This is one release I just can't recommend.
Classic Case: Jared Draughon - vocals / guitar / keyboards; Durijah Lang - drums; Mitchell Marlow - guitar; Eric Mendelson - bass; Josh Moore - guitar / vocals.
For more information, check out http://www.classiccase.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.
Copyright © 2006 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
