Madhops are truly an incredible band, there's not much more I can add to that statement other than it's true. The band has went through a line-up change recently and after listening to this intoxicating CD multiple times I can definitely say it's for the better. The band could be compared to perhaps 311 with the light ska influence on some parts, and perhaps the Fu-Schnickens for the lightning speed at which Dan (vocals) attacks with his rhymes. But no single band comparison could ever stick. The band has a voracious heaviness to it incorporated with a vast experimental groove courtesy of the excellent guitar work. Something this band does, which I find unique is that they make the mellow heavy, either screaming violently over distorted riffs or smoothly flowing over serene serpent winding like melodies there's just no room to rest, the energy level is just constantly overflowing. Dan can bust raps acutely like an automatic machine gun fully loaded with verbal hollow tips. Another talent that he hold's is the way he inflects words through vocal tones making them all the more captivating. A.J.'s guitar work is outstanding, it's very innovative and intelligent. Alot of effects is used guitar wise which creates a very refined collage of melody, although a definite comparison could be Mike D. of Taproot. The thing that impresses me the most about A.J.'s playing is his discipline, he doesn't get sloppy and he doesn't let the effects drench the whole composition. Drum beats are consistent and have a nice warm tone to them, and bass is on point guiding the song along with a bit of a funk flair. The band excels at what they do seamlessly integrating many musical angles into one solid composition. "Suck The Sewer" is an incredible song where you're mesmerized by Dan's rap's and beaten back by his screams. "The Generation Killer" is another highlight of this CD mixing the entrancingly fast flows and the pulverizing screams of Dan with the slippery guitar work of A.J.. One thing I would have to denote is though that the band cycles through alot of changes in their song's and at times let's a very excellent sounding part go to waste as it only gets a 10 second run, I feel a bit more focus to smaller parts and perhaps a bit less use of constant changes would enhance this bands solidity ten fold. Madhops are truly a treat for the listener, a refined unique sound which has been unheard of before and a band guaranteed to make people hesitant to sleep on Chicago ever again.
(4.5 / 5)