HEADLOK

"Demo 2000" (Self-produced)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Headlok's four-track demo finds the band blending old and new metal styles in a fevered fashion. Aggression is prominent on the four tracks while still incorporating groove and a touch of radio-friendly melody. The vocals sound like a combination of a more metal version of Saigon Kick's Matt Kramer, a nu-metal version of James Hetfield, and an even zanier-than-zany Rob Zombie. 

"Misery" has a decent groove and a good vocal hook. "Eyes Of A Madman," as the title suggests, hints at a more sinister tone a la Slayer with blistering riffing that reminds me of Zakk Wylde's early days with Ozzy blended with Pantera-like riffs. "Headlok" (the song, not the band) is a modern update of Pantera's debut album sound. "Concrete Fist" has a weird amalgam of straight forward metal with a 'bouncy' bass line during the verses that seems out of place yet returns to a pounding chorus - perhaps this an experimental track? As far as demos go, Headlok's "Demo 2000" follows all the rules: put your best foot forward, keep the tracks short, don't forget the hooks, and keep the energy high.

In summary, Headlok is best described as further proof that bands are moving a bit away from nu-metal in its original and played-out forms. Headlok seems like a band that is ready and willing to put pure hard rock and heavy metal back on the map without repeating the past - and that's refreshing to hear.

It would not surprise me if Headlok, at the very least, became a regional sensation with an outside chance of gaining some national exposure.

Headlok is Steve on vocals, Joe on guitar, Dave on bass, and Nick on drums.

For more information visit http://www.headlok1.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.

Back to CD Reviews Page

Back to RoughEdge.com home page

Copyright © 2003 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
Revised: 13 Jan 2020 21:26:19 -0500.