The U.S. release of Peach's one and only album hits stores with one of its main selling points being the fact that it was the group in which Justin Chancellor of Tool once played in. Banking heavily on this fact as well as fresh new artwork from Tool guitarist Adam, this album may have what it takes to satisfy a few fans craving something from the other infamous band, but by no means is anywhere near the caliber of Tool. Rhythmic vocals croon out smooth verses that can become overtly poppy while chugging basslines and soaring guitar riffs heat things up with well placed energy that comes stacked with tight drumwork.
Vocally the bands roots show with a staunch British accent in place, and although it isn't snide or "britpop"-ish, it is quite noticeable and could turn a few of the more close-minded North American fans away. Aside from that, a lot of melody is packed into timed bursts of vocals that feature a somewhat average voice that is neither soft, nor hard, yet still manages to get the job done. Guitars are expansive and hit with a mesh of distortion and clean plucking that all in all feels tinged with a somewhat alternative flavor. Some riffs are brutally vicious, while others are inherently placid and glide behind the lyrics, creating a silky blend of harmony. Bass as expected is the area that draws the most similarities to Tool, from the slight downtuning and large roomy tone to the chugging basslines that enthusiastically elevate the songs with a predatory grace, you can indeed see why Justin was picked up by Tool on the merit of his performance here. Featuring sparsely used high fretboard excursions and an elegantly assertive nature in which the notes are hit, the bass is very much an integral part of this band sound and definitely takes on a leading role on this disc. Drums are rapid and seem to be mic'd a bit flat, yet they still rebelliously pound out intricate beats that are topped off with solid snare improvisation. Impressive and yet almost careless, they get the job done effectively and also manage to add a bit of adrenaline to the mixture along the way.
Although some may be disappointed, expecting shades of one certain band on this release, most shall be presently surprised to find something that is completely different. With song structures that dabble in an alternative metal that enlists both intensity and pop ideals along with a general focus that leans more towards the overall cohesiveness of the songs and the implementation of catchy hooks, its very easy to get lost head over heels within the album. The group really let all members have an equal opportunity as there's a handful of moments when all the swirling guitar effects and dead on drumwork really let the bass playing shine and others where the guitar eagerly grabs the reigns and dives weightlessly to new heights smackdab into a wall of sound similar to the likes of Failure. Although it may sound a bit light there are still a few wickedly evil sounding riffs and crunchy songs that can easily hold their own amongst heavier bands, but on the other edge of the sword there's also some poorly executed tracks that can become overtly annoying such as the playful "Catfood" which really spoils the dark and brooding mood the band permeates when concentrating on the task at hand. For Tool fans this disc does come recommended as there are various similarities between the two groups playing styles and its a nice surprise to see the roots of their current bass player aren't too far off from the his current work. But for those looking for something that will grant a cathartic release and fuel some violent tendencies, this record will no doubt fall short as it can feel a bit dated and timid. Peach did give birth to an album that does possess the solidarity of granite, although one might wonder if they were stoned while writing a few of the tracks featured, but all in all with stalking basslines and a healthy dosage of melodic enchantment, they have managed to end up creating a treat that will be too sweet for some and just right for others.
(3 / 5)
