Music Reviews

Rage

Unity

Steamhammer / SPV

Close to twenty years after the inception of what was to become Rage, “Peavy” Wagner and his ever-shifting band have been honing and defining their own brand of heavy metal to the point that today, you know exactly what you’re getting when you approach a new Rage album. In-your-face but grand and outreaching music that bridges the gap between prog metal and stadium rock, entirely removed from whatever’s trendy this month and probably all the better for it. Technically brilliant, Rage never give in to mere virtuosity, and always make sure the song takes center stage – even though the songwriting isn’t their strongest side at all.

It’s difficult to not be impressed by this band, with its incessant force and attack, but on the other hand, it’s equally difficult to be particularly moved by the music itself. A likeable band and a decent album, but ultimately there are too many mediocre songs on here that it ever seems to matter much.

SPV: http://www.spv.de


Recently on Ink 19...

Swans

Swans

Event Reviews

40 years on, Michael Gira and Swans continue to bring a ritualistic experience that needs to be heard in order to be believed. Featured photo by Reese Cann.

Eclipse 2024

Eclipse 2024

Features

The biggest astronomical event of the decade coincides with a long overdue trip to Austin, Texas.

Sun Ra

Sun Ra

Music Reviews

At the Showcase: Live in Chicago 1976/1977 (Jazz Detective). Review by Bob Pomeroy.

Dark Water

Dark Water

Screen Reviews

J-Horror classic Dark Water (2002) makes the skin crawl with an unease that lasts long after the film is over. Phil Bailey reviews the new Arrow Video release.