Rough Edge: Geared 4 CD Reviews

GEARED 4

"Breaking the Mould" (Self-produced; 2004)

Reviewed by Snidermann

Sometimes a band just clicks and instantly you know you're onto something special. When I first put in this self-produced CD by Geared 4 from the UK, I knew from the first track that this was one very talented and interesting band.

"Breaking the Mould" is straight-forward, no bull, rock'n'roll - just the way it should be. The music thunders out of the CD with fierce intensity that lit up my CD player nicely. I can't believe this band isn't signed to a major label; they should be on the current Ozzfest tour or opening for some national touring metal band right now. They are that good.

Check out their website at http://www.geared4.co.uk, download some tunes and see if you don't agree. This is the kind of band I love to review: one that rocks hard, is relatively unknown, and has a shitload of talent.

Geared 4: Peter Hunt - drums; Glenn Abel - bass and vocals; Ian Colley - guitar; Matt Schnu - guitar.

For more information, check out http://www.geared4.co.uk.

"Natural Selection" (Self-produced; 2001)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

"Natural Selection" is a rough and raw rock'n'roll recording that combines the furious pace of thrash and the in-your-face attitude of punk. Its tracks alternate between Metallica-like burners (i.e., "Wrapped Right"), Rancid-like punk ditties ("Cement Head"), raging Gwar-like mini-epics ("Death Thoughts") and simmering Pantera-like rockers such as the final track, "Geared Four Fix."

The CD is a virtual cornucopia of metal / punk / thrash sounds. Surprisingly, it all comes together very well. "Natural Selection" may have a lot of variety, but it also kicks some serious ass. There isn't a slow moment on the CD, much less a slow track.

The production should also be mentioned. "Natural Selection," produced by the band themselves, sounds as good as any big label release. You don't hear many self-produced CDs that sound this good.

Fans of any of the above-mentioned bands and others like them will find a lot to like here.

Geared 4: Glenn Abel - bass, vocals; Peter Hunt - drums; Seamus Griffin - guitars.

For more information, check out http://www.geared4.co.uk.

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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