Atrox Orgasm
code666 Code21 27th October 2003
By Russell Garwood
Atrox. Weird schizophrenic gothic metal? Whatever you think best categorizes this Norwegian groups unusual sound, one thing is certain its unlikely to be a label youve used before. Their original mix of subtle electronics, progressive structures, a technical feel and female vocals is rare indeed, and will no doubt not be to everyones taste. Guitars (Ole Marius, Eivind) are reminiscent of Meshuggah in their riffing, while clean tones compliment the softer sections, showing more melody and a less technical feel. The bass of Peter is very prominent and occasionally lends a jazz feel, his complex lines verging on soloing. Start-stop sections and time changes prove no problem, while the drums of Tor Arne complete a tight rhythm section. These are ­ by necessity varied, odd beats and well timed fills appear in abundance. Monikas vocals are very unusual and fully utilise her range, mad lines traversing extremities in a matter of bars. Very rarely does the singing rely on slow graceful sections, yet this is to the musics advantage as they wouldnt fit the odd time signatures and complex layering. Infrequent male vocals (Peter), provide another interesting angle, yet are not prominent enough to have any true impact, and Monikas restrained synths are used to good effect. One drawback of the groups sound is that, at times, it feels lacking in cohesion.
Orgasm is an accomplished album, by five technically proficient musicians showcasing a real avant-garde feel. Such complexity requires numerous listens, and even then can be an acquired taste, yet Atrox comes highly recommended to fans of off the wall metal.
code666 Code21 27th October 2003
By Russell Garwood
Atrox. Weird schizophrenic gothic metal? Whatever you think best categorizes this Norwegian groups unusual sound, one thing is certain its unlikely to be a label youve used before. Their original mix of subtle electronics, progressive structures, a technical feel and female vocals is rare indeed, and will no doubt not be to everyones taste. Guitars (Ole Marius, Eivind) are reminiscent of Meshuggah in their riffing, while clean tones compliment the softer sections, showing more melody and a less technical feel. The bass of Peter is very prominent and occasionally lends a jazz feel, his complex lines verging on soloing. Start-stop sections and time changes prove no problem, while the drums of Tor Arne complete a tight rhythm section. These are ­ by necessity varied, odd beats and well timed fills appear in abundance. Monikas vocals are very unusual and fully utilise her range, mad lines traversing extremities in a matter of bars. Very rarely does the singing rely on slow graceful sections, yet this is to the musics advantage as they wouldnt fit the odd time signatures and complex layering. Infrequent male vocals (Peter), provide another interesting angle, yet are not prominent enough to have any true impact, and Monikas restrained synths are used to good effect. One drawback of the groups sound is that, at times, it feels lacking in cohesion.
Orgasm is an accomplished album, by five technically proficient musicians showcasing a real avant-garde feel. Such complexity requires numerous listens, and even then can be an acquired taste, yet Atrox comes highly recommended to fans of off the wall metal.
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