In the early morning, there’s really nothing better than a pot of coffee, a cigarette, and a breeze of fat, really well-produced alternative metal from... Stainless. My goodness, there’s no big major label pampered American band behind this, but rather just some simple guys from Neuss with a lot of talent, joy of playing, and really good ideas.
The opener track "Bitter Tasting Pride" thumps beautifully out of the speakers, the scratchy yet crystal-clear voice has just the right note of energy and grit that perfectly matches the music. Following that is my personal favorite song from this CD. "Burning Glass" shines on one hand with a wonderful melodic structure that burrows into your head, and on the other hand, it stands out with innovative ideas.
The initially ballad-like "Ruler of my World" impresses just as much. A calm, beautifully orchestrated beginning, where Sebi's harmonious voice clearly stands out, while the band thumps along, and you notice that each individual knows their craft. It would also be fatal to highlight one musician in particular because there was simply a unity in the studio.
This continues with each track being a little highlight in itself until the big hammer drops. "In my Black Box" is my track, my anthem. Aggressive, dark, and powerful, with an ending that makes you think, wait, is that it?... So, let’s listen again.
But to ensure this doesn’t just turn into a hymn of praise, I will take the "Doubt Generator" as a sacrificial piece, which I find really mediocre. I do like it when different accents are set in a piece, but here it’s too opaque and very mood-swinging. But honestly, if that’s all there is.
All in all, a really good album that doesn’t have to fear comparisons with scene greats. But I’ll leave it to each listener and hopefully also buyer to form their own opinion.
Congratulations to the gentlemen from Neuss, you have convinced me.
