We check in with all things heavy on RTRFM’s Critical Mass show.
There’s a big difference between sounding “retro” and being “old school” musically. As great as bands such as Ghost (B.C), Uncle Acid And The Deadbeats, Purrson and Blood Ceremony are, one can’t occasionally shake the obvious fact that these bands are trying to sound retro.
Dracula, a three-piece outfit from Tasmania on the relatively new “Heavy Chains” label, don’t sound retro. On the contrary, this three-track demo tape sounds as if it actually was recorded in 1985. And all for the better.
A warbly, hammer horror-esque intro gives way to some old NWOBHM-style riffing that is unique and catchy. The seemingly single tracked guitar creates an odd/eerie sound that is more Mercyful Fate or Manilla Road than straight up Black Sabbath (although the occasional nod to the ‘Sabs is present). There are a few nice solos too.
The vocalist is fantastic, delivering a theatrical performance that is sure to bring comparisons to King Diamond. His less OTT “normal” singing voice also suits the atmosphere, suitably cloaked in echo and reverb.
A great first offering for those interested in something less polished and more underground. The ‘rough and ready’ sound of this tape has me awaiting a full length or EP soon. Check out the opening track “Castle In a The Darkness”.
Critical Mass is 9pm every Wednesday on RTR FM 92.1
