Subtle Rock
I often wonder if the person who writes the press releases for new albums actually listens to them first. Do they get told what to write? Do they have a well of generic press releases they dip into and paste a band's name atop the sheet in hope that it somehow relates to the music? I have to ask because Ninefold's description of metal and hardcore-crossover is so way off the mark, that it doesn't to the band any favours whatsoever. This is a shame because Italian rockers Ninefold's second album 'Superstar,' is a lesson in writing innovative, catchy and subtle hard rock.
Starting with a riff straight out of the Soundgarden's Tupperware box of left over ideas, the first thing that hits you is the crunchy guitar tone and solid production. The drums are crisp and the bass is warm, which, when added to the half distorted guitar work, make you realise you're more in Audioslave and Filter territory, rather than in the realms of metal and hardcore. 'Goodbye Konig' starts with a gorgeous clean guitar piece, being built upon gradually before naturally changing direction. Antonio Crispino's vocals are heart wrenching, occasionally murmured, regularly emotional, but always full of melody.
Ninefold seem to have that talent to add extra ideas to their music, employ changes to songs, without suffering the mood or its direction. This is quite a skill in song-writing, 'Toasted' and 'Empty Coke Can' are good examples of this variations on a theme, different ideas are brought into play without the song losing focus and, more importantly, without losing the listener. What 'Superstar' lacks is a big chorus, apart from the catchy scything guitar riffs, there's very little more to grab your immediate attention. The music is good, but it will take many listens to really appreciate its subtleties. There is very little to sing-a-long to, which may put a lot of people off, but one could argue that this only adds to the albums dark and un-pretentious nature. 'The Dwarve's Tie' is a bizarre but enjoyable spacey interlude as is 'Eldorado,' but it is 'Love Coupon' that shines on this long player, it's upbeat groove ride out seemingly coming out of nowhere.
'Superstar' is the perfect album to put on the stereo when you're travelling back from a show, it's not particularly heavy but it has a subtle edge to it. It's songs are darker than the likes of Audioslave and perhaps a little more interesting. With the inclusion of some clever guitar sections and heart tugging vocals, it all adds up to a sombre, moody and gritty experience. Ninefold have written one of those albums that may not hit you first time, but you'll hear enough in the music to keep coming back to it. This is 'Superstar's' appeal, and from a reviewer who likes his rock a little harder, this approach is one that can win over even the most metal of souls. (Although it did take a while.) If this really is a metal and hardcore-crossover then I suggest you try it...you may like it.