New Music Reviews, Hard Rock, Heavy Metal, Progressive Rock, Progressive Metal, AOR, Alternative Rock, Alternative Metal

Musically, Smackbound established themselves as a hard and heavy rock with modern metal nuance. The latter coming largely from the sometimes caustic riffs and thumping and thick bottom end. Yet the songs are not without melody, groove, and vocal harmony. That is to say, all the songs turn upon Ms Laurenne's vocals.

Though their musical approach is not novel, it can be interesting. You have this combination of hard and heavy metal rock and Laurenne's impressive vocal range which can go from sweetly angelic to wild metal screamo. Very often in the same song. You'll find this within Reap, Hostage, Break, or Razor Sharp. That last song lives up to its name with razor riffs and acerbic vocals, then driven by power metal speed in parts. Then there's the puzzling The Edge, which is largely piano, vocals, and ambient synths. For my money, my favorite song was Hold The Fire, a power metal rocker with galloping speed and heavy rock groove.

All things considered, Smackbound's Hostage finds the band staying their chosen musical course. Led by Netta Laurenne's versatile vocal range, they once more offer their heavy rock with modern metal nuances. Recommended, especially if you enjoyed their debut album.

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