TORG--The Dumbening
Scarey Records 2005
Funny and hate-filled is not the easiest of propositions to pull off. That said, TORG certainly make the scenario feel rather effortless on their new platter The Dumbening. While there's not much of a given to expect from track to track, those two aspects shine in synergy from beginning to end. It certainly makes for a unique experience, if nothing else.
Stylistically, TORG meld such a hodgepodge of different influences, it's fairly daunting to pigeonhole The Dumbening into one particular category. Musically, metal is the thread that runs most consistently through this listen, referencing everything from Coffin Break to Down along the way. Vocally and lyrically the picture is much clearer, with those roots firmly planted in the El Duce, GG Allin, and Blag Dahlia camps. Normally, that fact would lead one to assume the listening experience as a raw and sloppy one. On the contrary, this material is executed with razor sharp precision and bolstered by an arena-ready production value.
Due to the all-over-the-map nature of The Dumbening, standout tracks come to the ears rather easily. The disc opening "Hot Yogurt Enema" recalls the most impressive moments off NOFX's Punk In Drublic album, frenzied metallic runs augmented by ska-tinged jangle. "Electro Pussy (Euro Mix)" wins the crown for fiercest riff of the pack, cleverly implementing structural aspects common in some industrial music. The slide guitar work on "Airies" buzzes like an agitated hive, lifting this one above the din. Throughout this record, the lead guitar work impresses just as much as the lyrics make you giggle.
If any of the aforementioned artists are part of your bag, The Dumbening should at least have a little something for you. With this release, TORG have taken scumpunk aesthetic and morphed it into something fairly accessible--no easy task. These guys are just as powerful and knee-slappingly hilarious onstage, so make an effort to check them out if they ever roll through your area. In the meantime, if any of this sounds good to you, the CD will suffice.
Score this CD directly from SCAREY RECORDS
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