DESTRAGE
- The King Is Fat 'n' Old
Coroner Records
I recall first listening to this Italian band's debut,
Urban Being, and being immediately impressed by their ability to blend classic
metal elements with modern influences, resulting in a highly catchy and
engaging sound. About a year later, they released their sophomore album, The
King Is Fat 'n' Old, which continues along a similar musical path. However, in
my opinion, it falls slightly short of the mark set by their debut.
While the album retains the core ingredients that made
their first effort stand out, it seems that in an attempt to showcase their
technical prowess and make a strong impression, DESTRAGE has overloaded many of
the compositions. The songs feature frequent tempo shifts, thematic changes,
and a multitude of ideas that, at times, come across as overwhelming. These
abrupt transitions can disrupt the natural flow, making some tracks feel more
like a patchwork of disparate parts rather than cohesive songs. As a result,
the overall listening experience can feel chaotic, with the band’s intention of
sounding progressive and elaborate occasionally working against them.
That said, DESTRAGE is undeniably a highly talented
and cohesive band. Their performances are top-notch, with well-trained
musicianship and a tight rhythm section. The guitar work is particularly
notable, especially the solos heavily influenced by Yngwie Malmsteen,
complemented by Zakk Wylde-style false harmonics. The vocals are also a
strength—capable of growling, screaming, and singing with skill and versatility.
If you enjoy modern metalcore that balances clean
vocals with harsh, aggressive tones, this album is worth exploring. It offers a
high level of musicianship and energetic songwriting. However, personally, I
would prefer more structured compositions with less embellishment.
Additionally, I find the duality of clean and harsh vocals somewhat tiresome;
while both are performed well, the frequent use of this vocal style has become
somewhat of a cliché in the genre.
In summary, The King Is Fat 'n' Old is a commendable
work that showcases the band’s technical abilities and creativity. Still, its
tendency toward chaotic arrangements and vocal duality might not appeal to all
listeners, especially those seeking more streamlined, cohesive songs.
Christine
Parastatidou
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