Boogie Metal
Magnetic Eye Records
Release Date – March 15th 2024
Line Up:
Mike – Vocals
Zach – Guitar/Backing Vocals
Jesse – Bass/Backing Vocals
Ben – Drums
Tracklist:
1 – Spit In The Casket
2 – Big Bad Bodega Cat
3 – Freewheelin’ Maniac
4 – Empty Bottle Boogie
5 – Guilty Pleasure
6 – Macradose (interlude)
7 – La La Land
8 – Twisting Flowers
9 – Headstone
10 – Cornered Animal
11 – Raised Me Rowdy
When a band boldly defines their sound as ‘boogie metal’ and boasts their very own signature beer (I must admit, I have a penchant for good beer!), it’s an invitation to give them a listen. Emerging from the vibrant punk and hardcore scene in Boston back in 2012, Leather Lung has already delivered highly acclaimed EPs, and now they present their inaugural full-length album.
The experience begins with the powerful resonance of big distorted guitars in ‘Spit In The Casket,’ setting a seamless groove that prompts your head to nod in rhythm. Mike’s raw and gritty vocals demand attention. The boogie element kicks in with the ZZ Top-inspired grind of ‘Big Bad Bodega Cat,’ paving the way for the impactful ‘Freewheelin’ Maniac’ and the monumental ‘Empty Bottle Boogie’ – a track destined to become a classic. This is a colossal, unapologetic eruption of rock ‘n’ roll that’s loud, raucous, and thoroughly invigorating.
‘Guilty Pleasures’ introduces a grinding doom, with drummer Ben orchestrating a tempo change that propels the band into a brutal bout of hardcore groove metal. ‘Macrodose Interlude’ provides a 90-second intermission featuring fuzzed bass and raging guitar, leading into the compelling groove and tribal rhythm of ‘La La Land,’ reigniting the listener’s movement. ‘Twisting Flowers’ delivers a substantial dose of doom, featuring death metal vocals in parts, while the somewhat funky psych intro of ‘Headstone’ invites a dreamy pause before escalating into another massive death groove.
‘Cornered Animal’ boasts a commanding bass riff and yet another harsh vocal delivery, paving the way for the death blues boogie of ‘Raised Me Rowdy,’ concluding the album on a high note. These musicians exhibit a profound understanding of their craft, skillfully blending harsh vocals with captivating grooves and riffs, resulting in a sound that is simultaneously raw and sophisticated. It’s a rugged, authentic, and resoundingly loud journey, with subtle nuances that keep the experience consistently engaging.
Written by: Smudge