Combining dark emotion and vibrant song structures, Memphis, TN based quartet Logic 34 present an interesting take on modern metal, sounding much like a clash between the likes of Staind, Tool and Taproot; enlisting both sullen vocals and forceful distorted riffs to tackle the listeners attention.

Like a more versatile version of Staind vocalist Aaron Lewis, band frontman Will's deep croons are almost soulful, yet still convey a substantial amount of emotion, shifting through various tonalities that occasionally erupt into enraged screams, aided by band drummer Chase who also contributes backing vocals. The guitar playing included is fairly cutting edge, using sharp riffs that employ a clean distortion and slightly modern metal aesthetic to keep the songs driving and focused, while also accentuating choruses and breakdowns with large dynamic changes. The bass playing featured on this outing is quite impressive as well, enlisting roomy tones and plodding notes to establish a thick, brooding foundation, while also occasionally venturing into a slap and pop territory that sounds prog rock than funk. Meanwhile, the drumming impacts hard and is played with a fair amount of restraint, which helps make the song structure changes all the more concentrated, while also supplying a steady base of thundering kick and brittle snare hits.

Without question, this band is definitely talented as each track on the demo tends to show them in a different light, from Tool meets Primus prog rock all the way to emotional dirges complete with modern metal crunch. The songs are solid and invigorating and though singer Will may posses a voice that has slight similarities to other artists, his style is much more varied and at times even upbeat, allowing him to avoid the overtly depressive route. Perhaps the bands strongest point though is the way they mix vividly energetic riffs with moody vocals, creating a contrasting friction that forcefully sucks the listener in. Sure, the songs don't necessarily feel fully realized yet and band guitarist Travis' playing could probably benefit from a more prevalent use of colorful effects, but these are all minor issues that can be remedied with ease, making it seem quite logical to think that Logic 34 will find themselves signing to a major label in the not too distant future.