Slough Feg - Atavism

circus_brimstone

Forest: Sold Out
Jul 5, 2003
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Indiana
Slough Feg – Atavism
Cruz Del Sur Music – cruz12 – April 28th, 2005
By Jason Jordan

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I wasn’t thrilled when Atavism showed up at my doorstep, because I thought I didn’t like Slough Feg. After even just one trip through this, though, I realize what I’ve been missing out on for the past few years. And since my initial session, I’ve basked in this at least a dozen times. Unfortunately I’m not qualified to stack their latest full-length up against their previous endeavors, but for whatever it’s worth, Atavism is quite a triumph.

I hear all kinds of styles in Slough Feg’s music.

The word “duh” comes to mind, Jason.

Yeah. Anyway, there are numerous styles smashed together here, which range from traditional heavy metal to power to doom to thrash. Ultimately, if you’re seeking a unit that adopts a style and sticks with it for a record’s duration, then get the fuck outta here. I must admit, nonetheless, that I was put-off by the heaps of praise constantly being tossed at these guys. After all, this American quartet is often celebrated as the pinnacle of trend-shunning underground metal. However, Atavism does indeed solidify their reputation as such. Once “Robustus” ignites we’re immediately thrown into action, until we migrate to “I Will Kill You / You Will Die.” The latter is an energetic romp full of charisma, inviting one and all to enjoy the infectious choruses, virtuosic guitar work, and complementary drumming. The naysayer – me a few weeks ago – should experience “I Will Kill You / You Will Die” before dismissing these guys completely. I’m positive it can’t be done. In any case, Slough Feg prove masters of retaining attention, because the brief instrumentals “Portcullis” and “Climax of a Generation” are amicable to the max, and at the same time, provide the consumer with a breather from the vocals. Not that a breather is needed, mind you.

Whereas jumpier numbers inhabit the first five slots, “Atavism” dismantles the chain by inserting an acoustic interlude. And though I’m being selective with which songs I describe, every one is worth checking out, especially “Agnostic Grunt” from the 0:50 minute mark and beyond. Fuck yeah, man. “Starport Blues” contains grooves-a-plenty, and I’d marvel at someone not swayed by the retro vibe, catchy rhythms, and leads galore. Shit yeah, man. With fourteen songs constantly shifting the mood, it’s difficult to avoid becoming totally engrossed with Atavism. But, perhaps the stylistic hodgepodge is a drawback for some people. Still, I wouldn’t recommend skipping through any of this. At forty minutes it’s not like you’ll want to for that matter. Nevertheless, it looks like I have a discography to catch up on, and Slough Feg – as skittish as they may be – are a pleasure to listen to.

9/10

Official Slough Feg Website
Official Cruz Del Sur Music Website
 
I enjoyed this as much as anything I listened to in 2005. Timeless, eccentric heavy metal with great riffs and melodies. The associated bands Hammers of Misfortune and Ludrica are also not to be missed!:worship:
 
Brilliant album, and interestingly enough, probably my least favourite of theirs. Great band overall and highly underrated.

This review just reminded me that the album needs to go in my top 10 list for 2005. :kickass: