Highroad No. 28--Dynamic Introspection
self-released 2004
The grunge explosion of the late 80's/early 90's changed the face of music forever. As significant as that movement's impact was, it's surprising you don't see more bands today carrying on in this form. If you've been craving some new fuzz-heavy grime, Highroad No. 28 have you covered. Their new EP, Dynamic Introspection, is a very impressive outing.
For the most part, Highroad No. 28 specialize in plodding midtempo grunge. Dynamic Introspection boasts a sound which comes off as a blend of Tad and, perhaps because of vocalist/drummer Andrew's thick Aussie accent, the Cosmic Psychos. It's a powerful alchemy but Highroad No. 28 actually have more going for themselves than sheer brute force. On songs like "Anxiety Disorder NOS," the lyrical content delves pretty deeply into some of the very serious medical concerns Andrew has been facing in his personal life. This honest and open approach to songwriting is not just redeemable for its bravery, but for the fact it is one of the main signposts of superb songsmithing, in general.
Yes, over the course of Dynamic Introspection's five tracks, Highroad No. 28 manage to deliver some real gems. The best song of the batch is "Dissociative Paroxysm." With a slightly hopped up tempo, it features the band's most inspired riff--which manages to sound like what Celtic Frost would if they were a grunge band. At the same time, the dreamy, sample-littered outtro section of the tune could've been shortened significantly--it drags on far longer than it should. Still, this is about the only flaw you'll find on Dynamic Introspection. "Time Desolation" is a standout, this lovely acoustic instrumental providing a refreshing breather from the rest of the carnage, while "Intransigent" closes things on an appropriately crushing note and should appeal greatly to fans of Helmet and the like.
Grunge may have fallen out of vogue in the mainstream but Dynamic Introspection proves the form is doing just fine in the underground. If you never lost the fever to fly that flannel, Highroad No. 28 have provided you with a fresh new soundtrack. Powerful without being one dimensionally so, this one is a winner. Recommended to all fans this style.
Score this CD directly from HIGHROAD NO. 28
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