The last album "Drunk not Dead" by THE BRAINS from Canada was their breakthrough in the international horrorbilly and psychobilly scene. Many scene experts already knew the band from their previous albums, but with this album, released in 2011 on People Like You Records, the band took another big step. The album also received very positive feedback from us at ramtatta.de. The review can be read here:
http://www.ramtatta.de/reviews,id-1141,go-the+brains+drunk+not+dead.html
After "Drunk not Dead" comes now "The Monster Within". A band like THE BRAINS demands everything from its members. Wear and tear or escape, the band has definitely hired a new drummer and a second guitarist. This has done the combo good. The songs remain very melodic, played fast, and engaging. One might even say the band captivates you.
Even the first song "The Monster Within" is an absolute burner. It reminds a bit of "Wreckhouse Stomp" by Mad Sin from the first seconds. Fast, hard played, melodic vocals... simply great for a proper Wreckhouse Stomp.
Hardly taking a breath, the band continues with "Give it All" almost in the same vein. A bit more melody, short singalongs, and bam, it transitions into a typical billy melody for the chorus.
With "Misery", the inclined rockabilly fan is also catered to. At least the rockabilly that also enjoys the sound of the new school.
These three songs provide a good cross-section of the band's abilities. Psychobilly, rockabilly, horrorbilly, punkabilly, call it what you want, THE BRAINS can do it.
In the middle of the album, the band also features an instrumental piece with "Cucaracha in Leather". A song that can be placed somewhere between a soundtrack for a hectic zombie slasher and a tribute to Brian Setzer. A song that stands out a bit.
THE BRAINS release with "The Monster Within" an album that, with its 14 songs, provides plenty of entertainment and is made to be played loud. In my opinion, it doesn't quite reach the level of "Drunk not Dead" in terms of speed and melody, but this album showcases the musical abilities of the band, which truly need not hide from anyone.
In August, the band will come to Europe for a tour. Don't miss it!
