All clenched fists and flailing facial hair, LAZARUS A.D’s second full length clings to its relentless, chugging groove for dear life, swinging around the sonic treetops like a tattooed Tarzan.
The Wisconsin quartet have consciously opted for a tightened and streamlined approach on ‘Black River’s Flow’, opting to trim out anything that doesn’t rock enough to cause seizures and cardiac arrest. It’s a catchy album and even if the songwriting doesn’t deviate greatly from the established groove metal formula offered by the likes of Pantera and Metallica, it’s hard to fault for the sheer enjoyment factor. There are some sublime choruses too – case in point being the dizzying highs offered by the title track – perfect for bouncing around on your parents floral pattern bed regardless of your own steadily advancing years.
While there is a niggling lack of variation, if it’s the neck brace look you’re after, ‘Black River’s Flow’ ticks all the boxes. Good time, fun metal.
CHRIS SHIPMAN