Scum Of The Earth has built quite a following since
their debut "Blah...Blah...Blah...Love Songs
for the New Millenium." Fronted by former Rob
Zombie guitarist Riggs, Scum Of The Earth took the
sound created on Mr. Zombie's solo debut and made
it sound like a depraved party. The result was an
album that captured the listener's ears and imagination.
The devil's favorite sons are back with their second
full length, "Sleaze Freak."
"Sleaze Freak" attacks the senses with
a heavier sound than Scum Of The Earth offered on
their previous release. This album sounds less like
a debauched circus and more like a well oiled killing
machine. What separates "Sleaze Freak" from
its predecessor is more hardcore influence. HC style
breakdowns punctuate the album. I know the Zombie
references are inevitable, but on "Sleaze Freak"
Scum Of The Earth sounds more like White Zombie than
Rob Zombie, dredging up J. Yuenger's guitar tones
for the title track and "Devilscum," the
latter of which sports some slide guitar that's more
than a little reminiscent of "More Human Than
Human."
The horror themes Scum Of The Earth are known for
are in full effect on this release. The creepy synths
that open "Death Stomp" soon melt into a
post-hardcore groove, complete with punishing drums.
If that track isn't eerie enough for you, try the
psycho funhouse tone of "I Am Monster."
The punk power of "Scum-O-Rama" sports a
scary riff that lies somewhere between Black Sabbath,
the Cro-Mags and an ass whupping. Scum Of The Earth
is forging a distinct sound on this release, and the
future can only see them separating from the pack
even more. The Scum are back, and you won't be able
to scrape this one off your brain.
Key Tracks: "Scum-O-Rama" and "I Am
Monster"
Reviewed by Jim McDonald |
