Kick Music in Denmark has re-released the critically acclaimed album "Smugglers" by Norwegian band
We. The press release was so appetizing that I teared the sealing off the CD and put it on immediately.
The music that blasted out didn't do the well written press release justice.
We play rock with a strong grain of "Stoner Rock". "Smugglers" is their 6th album therefore the band is experienced and
We has played lots of live shows including some of the bigger festivals in Scandinavia.
The weak point of
We is singer Thomas Felberg. His vocals are fragile and lack power to match the potent instruments, which are beefed up by producer Chris Goss.
Overall the "Stoner Rock" style is boring because the melodies are monotone. The music is short of melody and indeed catchy choruses. The Norwegians don't succeed in being different from other bands in the genre.
"Smugglers" has a 70's vibe to it, flavored with bombastic effects. The album has one highlight that saves this record from getting a disastrous grade. The title track
Smugglers is very
atmospheric, which brings back memories to
Pink Floyd during their "Dark Side of the Moon" and "The Wall" period. The guitar riff and the repetitive chorus actually make the track quite enjoyable. Since the song lasts for almost 10 minutes it represents ¼ of the record.
"Smugglers" is packed with monotone stoner rock that makes you sleepy. or put you in a stoned condition. Except for the brilliant title track the only deviation is
Sassy Zazie where
We delivers a track suitable for radio - but again the song lacks melody to reach the masses.
Musically this isn't my style at all so if you enjoy Stoner Rock you might find qualities in this album, but for the regular Heavy Rock fans there is nothing to achieve here.
¼ of the record is listenable, which is basis for the grading.
Written by
Michael Thursday, October 13, 2005
Show all reviews by MichaelRatingsMichael: 2.5/10Members: No members have rated this album yet.
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