Formed in 1997, Switzerland metallers Pigskin have released 2 albums (Epidemic 2003 & Exposed to Threat 2006), an EP in 2008, and a promo demo in 2000. Playing mostly hardcore and crossover at first, then later more thrash inspired music. Having been the support act for the likes of Soulfly, Napalm Death and Testament (To name but a few of many) they are obviously worthy of a listen. Their newest album ‘The Never Ending Black’ was produced in Thunderfart studious in Siebnen... yes you heard it right... THUNDERFART!
Ok childish bit over, so in goes the cd, having never heard this Band before and knowing these guys aren’t signed to a label I was a bit put off. However luckily the first track ‘Frisco Joe’ belts in with an effective heavy riff and drum beat. Melodic throughout and the vocals kick in approx one minute into it. The vocals however aren’t much to shout about considering it’s not really singing or screaming, just talking. Here’s hoping the rest of the album isn’t the same.
Thankfully, as soon as the second track comes on ‘Order of Domination’, the screaming vocals invade my ears, explosive, yet clear enough to understand what he’s shouting about. Quite particularly liked the breakdown beat during the middle section.
I loved the melodic guitar riffs throughout, and apart from the first track, the vocals blew me away. Another few tracks that were equally as impressive were ‘Travel to the Liver’ I couldn’t get enough of the riffs flying everywhere on this track, and the vocals were in your face and aggressive. ‘Return to the Chapel’ for its perfect beat to rock out to and the backing vocals were just demonic and took the track to a whole new level of brutalness. The vocals toward the end were impressive, going along and changing at the same time as notes of the guitar. ‘Slave of darkness’ has a Lamb of God Feel to it, catchy with an intriguing little guitar solo in the middle section. Definitely my favourite track from the ten on the CD.
Last to mention, is the album titled track ‘The Never Ending Black’ purely for the start with the death metal style vocal Uuuurgh!! (Which can only be described as someone being sick) amazing! Halfway through the track it just gets better, slows down the pace and the guitars sound almost power metal (sorry if it offends, it’s not a bad thing!) leading on to an acoustic piece, which quite simply is a perfect ending to the cd.
Having listened to the album I would have thought these guys would look like emo screamo guys with their funny fringes and umpteen tattoos, gladly though, they aren’t!, and if we take out the first track on the album and pretend it was never heard then it’s definitely a belter! I really cannot understand why there are no labels after this band yet? Watch this space..
http://www.myspace.com/pigskinmetal
