The Handshake Murders Usurper
Goodfellow Records GFR044 February 20th, 2007
By Jason Jordan
Needless to say, especially considering labelmates Spitfire and former labelmates Quell, The Handshake Murders fit in with the Goodfellow roster, and also wouldnt be out of place on Solid State since they share traits with Norma Jean, The Chariot, August Burns Red, and others. Usurper is quite chaotic in nature, though occasionally steers towards Serapis-esque minimalism when not displaying a host of Meshuggahisms that ultimately add panache to their style. Unfortunately, despite the verve, this is only a 32-minute album, which leaves the listener wanting more even if the materials not overwhelmingly original.
The abrasive Dissector is a great introduction to The Handshake Murders, and its clear they wield their instruments with more than enough poise. On another positive note, the production leaves the recording room to breath, so its easy to tell what each player is contributing to the intricate soundscape. Highlights include Painted Contortionist the repeated line Ill rip your throat out begs for a growl-a-long as well as the Meshuggah sound-alike Mind Bender. Even though the length is short, however, Usurper starts to drag about midway through, which makes sense seeing as how exhausting this style can be for both performers and audience members. Listening isnt always a passive experience.
Nevertheless, Usurper is a good record from a good label. The Handshake Murders arent breaking new ground, but still offer a satisfying piece of work that, again, will please fans of this oft-knotty style. Come to think of it, Crowpath aficionados may find this somewhat rewarding, too.
Official The Handshake Murders Website
Official Goodfellow Records Website
Goodfellow Records GFR044 February 20th, 2007
By Jason Jordan
Needless to say, especially considering labelmates Spitfire and former labelmates Quell, The Handshake Murders fit in with the Goodfellow roster, and also wouldnt be out of place on Solid State since they share traits with Norma Jean, The Chariot, August Burns Red, and others. Usurper is quite chaotic in nature, though occasionally steers towards Serapis-esque minimalism when not displaying a host of Meshuggahisms that ultimately add panache to their style. Unfortunately, despite the verve, this is only a 32-minute album, which leaves the listener wanting more even if the materials not overwhelmingly original.
The abrasive Dissector is a great introduction to The Handshake Murders, and its clear they wield their instruments with more than enough poise. On another positive note, the production leaves the recording room to breath, so its easy to tell what each player is contributing to the intricate soundscape. Highlights include Painted Contortionist the repeated line Ill rip your throat out begs for a growl-a-long as well as the Meshuggah sound-alike Mind Bender. Even though the length is short, however, Usurper starts to drag about midway through, which makes sense seeing as how exhausting this style can be for both performers and audience members. Listening isnt always a passive experience.
Nevertheless, Usurper is a good record from a good label. The Handshake Murders arent breaking new ground, but still offer a satisfying piece of work that, again, will please fans of this oft-knotty style. Come to think of it, Crowpath aficionados may find this somewhat rewarding, too.
Official The Handshake Murders Website
Official Goodfellow Records Website
