Dr. Chud's X-Ward--Diagnois for Death
I didn't know if I'd be really into this. I heard an MP3 which I thought was average, but I like The Misfits and I think Chud had some strong songs in that band...
Packaging--
The good:
You really can't argue with this. We have an independent release here with a 12 page, colorful booklet that has lyrics, a few photos, recording info, and an entire comic book. Also included are two videos that you can watch on your computer. Though low-budget they actually are pretty good and look rather professional. Great job.
The bad:
This is honestly one of the nicest looking releases I've seen in a long time. The fact that it's independently produced and financed makes it all the more impressive. Top notch.
The music:
The good:
Dr. Chud was in the new incarnation of the Misfits and he wrote a bunch of songs for the band. This band is very much in the same style of the new Misfits. I would go as far as to say that if you like Graves-era Misfits you will almost certainly like this. If you didn't, this may be worth checking out as it lacks the whole "Misfits" stigma. The production is crisp and clear with a solid mix. A nice job.
The songs are generally mid-paced to fast, melodic, catchy, in what can be described as "horror punk." The tracks "Blue Skin" and "Goodbye" are slower paced, but other than that the songs are at least mid-paced. Vocally, Chud does sound a bit like Michale Graves. He sings cleanly with a bit of aggressive "hoarse" yelling from time to time. Chud can definitely carry a tune and does a fine job with the vocal delivery with a few rough edges here and there. Almost every song has a different band lineup, but the album flows nicely.
The bad--
The instrumental intro to "Rabid" is a bit too long. I would've split up the back to back slow songs. And the album left me wanting more, which isn't necessarily a bad thing. These problems are extremely minor and if I didn't make a point to try of giving some criticism for every release, I probably wouldn't mention them.
Recap�
This quite honestly is the first CD in a long time that I've really enjoyed from start to finish as soon as I heard it. A very strong release that I wasn't sure I'd be into. The songs are catchy and will stick out to you, especially if you're into the Graves era Misfits. I'm very impressed and can't wait to hear more.
Want more info?
Check out the following links for info on the band, including music samples, photos, and ordering info:
http://www.drchud.com
http://www.drchudsxward.com
Review by Chris
