DOWNSHALLOW

"The New Fashion" (Self-released; 2010)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

Downshallow returns to a heavier mindset after dabbling in acoustic alchemy on their previous effort with their latest 12-track album entitled "The New Fashion."

This New Jersey quartet projects an enormous sound that references everything from the left-of-center metallic vibes of Chevelle and Deftones to the soaring melodies of Our Lady Peace and Finger Eleven while maintaining a distinct identity whose sonic brew brims over with cascading hooks, unexpected rhythmic movements, and a massive vocal presence leading the alternative metal leanings on cuts like the sinewy “Crash,” the psychedelic blues shuffle of “Ashes” and the bass-driven groove of “All For Nothing.”

Balancing modern rock nuances out with a clever array of teeth gnashing riffs (“Without a Reason,” “Subway Vampire”), Downshallow’s artsy brand of hard rock allows for both functionality and fashionability via a series of brooding emotions guiding the listener through this veteran act’s moody musings and angsty hybrid of hard rock, metal , and alternative.

For more information, check out http://www.downshallow.com.

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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Revised: 13 Mar 2023 19:46:28 -0500 .