Looking at the promo shots for this band, a three piece displaying Mohawks, ink and piercings galore, like me, you could well believe this was a band that had emerged from the New York Hardcore scene. Instead, Social Head Removal is a new addition to London’s metal scene, and from the caliber of this CD, a much welcomed one.
Guitarist and vocalist Dave McEvoy drenches each of the four tracks on this offering with angry, intelligent lyrics, his deep growl staying away from the unintelligible screams of some hardcore bands, imbuing a punk like delivery. This is matched by his, perfectly matching the pounding drums of Alex Martin and groove laden bass of Maruo Imperatori.
Each track shows that this is a band that has learnt its trade and practised hard, ignoring trends and instead concentrating on intensity. ‘Alive’ sets the tone with a feeling of barely contained rage, whilst the next track, ‘Evilution’ offers straight down the line metal guitar riffing guaranteed to have heads banging, whilst the massive break down of ‘Leaving Scars’ had me wishing for a pit to throw myself into. The aural assault doesn’t let up, with the final track ‘Unlearn’ offers even faster riffs and massive beats.
Social Head Removal are a band that are looking for greater exposure, and from the quality of this work, are highly deserving of it. I know I’ll be looking for their name on the listings to see if the power and intensity of the CD is matched live.
http://www.myspace.com/socialheadremoval
