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Unsigned / Self-released
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 27.05.2015
Formed only a few years ago, Kong is young and promising hard and heavy band from Norway. They offer their first EP, self-titled, a short platter of four songs.
Generally, Kong is a throwback of sorts. They're after the classic heavy metal sound: heavy riffs, rock groove, blazing twin guitars in harmony and solos, and a driving rhythm section wrapped up in melody. And often speed: most songs have a brisk pace. Actually, being a guitar lover, I was impressed by the lines on all four songs, especially within The Crow and Threshold: both smooth and fiery.
On the vocal side, Thomas Bergli has strong voice, largely raw and gruff, but he still sings clean. Even so, I found him an acquired taste, not necessarily the most enjoyable voice to listen to. The overall "sound" of the album is sharp and open like the band was attempting to get that elusive combination of both clarity and playing live. Of the four songs (and I'm not clear on their order on the EP), Hit Harder was the only disappointment. Mostly, and musically, it didn't seem to be going anywhere, and Kong did the rambling for five minutes. Otherwise, Kong rocks in the best old school heavy metal sense. So up the irons and check them out. I think you'll like them.
Kong rocks in the best old school heavy metal sense: heavy riffs, rock groove, blazing twin guitars in harmony and solos, and a driving rhythm section wrapped up in melody. It's a winning combination.
Guitarist and producer Roy Z has been busy as of late. He created heavy metal act Spirits Of Fire, producing their debut album which dropped this month from Frontiers Records. Now he returns as both guitar and ... [ Read More ]