END OF LINE
"End
of Line" (Antibody Records)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
I'm not usually a fan of the scream-at-the-top-of-your-lungs vocals. They're just plain annoying most
of the time, unless you're in a live environment where - strangely - they
usually seem to work.
So I won't say that this self-titled debut of End of Line broke any new ground in my love for
gut-wrenching vocals. But I will say that the band has considerable music talent that makes the
screaming vocals fit the music style. Believe me, as far as I'm concerned, that's a major
achievement.
I don't mean to pick on vocalist Eli here. The fact of the matter is, he does a much better job of
screaming vocal-chord-ripping vocals than do most. He has a style that seems to
be all about timing and control. But it's the entire band that makes it work.
These are talented musicians and songwriters at work. The music moves and
embraces the vocals, combining to create a strong, unique sound.
There are plenty of bands who offer this kind of smash-and-crash
rock'n'roll, but it's the songwriting here that makes End of Line shine. And Eli's lyrics are very much a part of the total
success story.
End of Line give me hope for the future of this type of hard music. They manage to kick serious ass
without alienating the entire planet. Hey, you've got to have an audience. And,
speaking of an audience, I bet End of Line is something to see live.
END OF LINE is Eli - vocals; Mike Wood - drums and percussion; Ian Zumback - guitars; D. Patrick Walsh - bass.
For more information, please visit http://www.4endofline.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.
Copyright © 2000 by R. Scott Bolton. All
rights reserved.
Revised: 23 Sep 2024 14:47:19 -0400
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