| CD REVIEW Stoneman |
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Band: Stoneman Switzerland houses many bands that combine Metal with electronic influences – even Samael aren’t that afraid of using electronics, as you know. I can make a (modest) list with bands / projects that play an electronized form of (Dark / Death / Gothic / Black / Thrash / …) Metal, but let’s focus more specifically on one of the most successful ones from this century and their newest effort: Stoneman, with Human Hater. This band was formed in 2004 and they did release two albums before, Sex.Drugs.Murder (2006) and How To Spell Heroin (2007). Shortly after the release of this second one, the band quietly faded into silence for a few years, yet they did return, with a renewed line-up (more specific: a new bass player, Dave Snow), and with a new album, perfecting both former efforts. "White Star" opens the set. This song proves the evolution the band went through: more professional performance, cleaner production, but indeed, more hit-potential too… Both Swiss and Italian bands come to mind, among which, of course, Samael (era first half of this century; without the oppressing darkness Samael are known for), Ensoph or Ashcorn, but my mind also dwells towards Sisters Of Mercy, Rammstein, Thy Disease, Susperia, Deathstars, Nine Inch Nails and Cradle Of Filth. …but certainly not as inspiring, or inspired, as those bands… A few moments Stoneman do surprise me ("Suicide Is A Suicide", for example, is a nice little song; and what about the Punk-elements in "Built Of Anger"?), yet not always the most satisfying way. And what the sickening f*ck is the meaning of Pop-melody "Sweet November"? It will score on the radio, but as for me: f*ck this shit! Pathetic, stupid, childish, fake! These forty two minutes of Electro Goth Metal will do fine if you’re into higher mentioned bands; if not, then skip it! 60/100 Ivan Tibos. |
