Red Mountain Revolt’s latest musical offering, “Like A Loaded Gun,” blasts through the speakers with a relentless energy that encapsulates the band’s journey from a conceptual idea in the halls of North Central New Jersey to a powerhouse in the hard rock and heavy metal scene. The brainchild of childhood friends Christian Nevi and Kyle Merritts, this album is a testament to their shared passion for the gritty, raw sounds of hard rock and grunge.
Clocking in at 54 minutes and 7 seconds, “Like A Loaded Gun” is a sonic rollercoaster that kicks off with the explosive track ‘I’ve Tried’ and concludes with the haunting ‘Her Song.’ Between these bookends lies a musical journey filled with pounding drums, shredding guitar solos, gorgeous chordal progressions, and tight, groovy bass lines. The album effortlessly channels the influences of legendary bands like Alice In Chains, Led Zeppelin, Supertramp, Rival Sons, Black Sabbath, and Pink Floyd, creating a cross-genre experience that seamlessly blends hard rock, grunge, glam and heavy metal.
Classic yet hard-hitting compositional capabilities
From the opening notes, it’s evident that Red Mountain Revolt has nailed the composition of the tracks. The dynamic range is skillfully utilized, allowing each instrument to breathe while contributing to the overall intensity of the sound. The guitar tones are nothing short of menacing, adding a gritty edge to the album, while the drums, skillfully played by Nevi, are tight and feature killer rolls that punctuate the rhythmic backbone of each track.
The album boasts several notable tracks, including ‘Brain Storm,’ ‘Devil’s Grip,’ the title track ‘Like A Loaded Gun,‘ ‘Dysfunctional,’ and ‘Fall Through.’ Each song contributes to the album’s overall narrative, showcasing the band’s prowess in crafting compelling compositions that resonate with their audience.
Red Mountain Revolt’s history, rooted in the friendship and musical connection between Nevi and Merritts, adds depth to the album. Despite a temporary hiatus during their high school years, the duo reunited with a shared vision of creating music that pays homage to their influences while pushing the boundaries of the hard rock and heavy metal genres. The result is a cohesive and powerful album that reflects their musical journey.
Like A Loaded Gun – an ode to the forgotten noise machines of the late 90s
However, amidst the praise for the band’s musicality and the album’s compelling narrative, it’s crucial to address the production quality. While the performances are stellar, the audio production falls short. The sound feels ‘boxy,’ and the frequencies seem to bounce off the walls, detracting from the overall listening experience. This flaw becomes a stumbling block for an otherwise exceptional album, highlighting the importance of investing in top-notch production to fully showcase the band’s potential.
In the context of the indie music scene, Red Mountain Revolt’s “Like A Loaded Gun” stands as a testament to the raw talent and unbridled passion that characterizes independent artists. Despite the production hiccups, the album’s great lyrical narratives and equally impressive songwriting firmly place it as a contender in the contemporary music landscape.
Perhaps fit for a Noir Action Flick?
This album could find its place in the soundtrack of action-packed TV shows, such as ‘Breaking Bad‘ and ‘The Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D,’ where the intensity and energy of Red Mountain Revolt’s music would complement the on-screen drama, making it a compelling choice for fans of both hard-hitting music and gripping television narratives.
In conclusion, “Like A Loaded Gun” is a force to be reckoned with in the indie rock and metal scene. The album captures the essence of the band’s sonic palette, combining influences, tight musicianship, and a bold statement. With miles to go ahead of them, the overall experience is a testament to the band’s potential and their contribution to the indie music scene. As they continue to refine their craft, Red Mountain Revolt is undoubtedly a band to watch, poised for even greater heights after this action-packed studio effort.