TERMINAL
"Headtraumarehabilitation"
(Tsien Aerospace/Black Out Records)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Terminal is mega-strength music for those of you with patience and stamina. There's tons of
electronic pounding, buzz-saw guitars, and industrialized pulses.
Terminal is not heavy metal, but there are some elements in
"Headtraumarehabilitation" that make it a distant cousin to heavy metal. "Headtraumarehabilitation" is an engaging mix of industrial
rhythms, tribal drumming, voices twisted in endless tape loops, cathartic vocals, and subversive
melodies.
The lyrics deal with the aftermath of mania, the tribulations of an overactive mind, anger, defiance,
and inner strength. The broad-range of topics mine the same material that Trent Reznor deals with
all too often.
The pulsating percussion is the disc's highlight; sometimes the tribal
jungle-rama beats are chaotic and infectious while other times they are laid down with surgical precision. The guitars, while
sparse, provide an even mix of background noise and up-front ear sensations. The vocals
were mixed too low, but I say that about most CDs anyway.
Fans of Dope, Nine Inch Nails, Rorschach Test, and Apollyon Sun will dig Terminal.
Terminal is Don Mehanna on vocals and programming, Justin Alex on guitars, and A.J. Brzeczko on
bass.
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 ©2001 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
