Bastard Chain--RealAudio

There is definite songwriting growth on this release, as the underlying, atmospheric keyboard use is more apparent, and the vocals are also somewhat altered in places. Clean, Opeth-like sections can now be found (mainly in the choruses), adding a new element to the band's sound. The effect is two-fold. In part it is understandably eloquent and impressive, but the vocals also have the tendency to occasionally zap some of the aggressiveness from a song. Still, this is a friggin' underrated band, and this release features its heaviest production sound yet, to boot. Pretty much ripping throughout.
The bottom-heavy "Bastard Chain" shifts and morphs several times in its cycle, while "Like the Average Stalker" attacks with its fast-chopping riffs.
"Neurotica Rampage" is a thundering and rolling treat, with the pounding "The Analyst" following on its heels. The strutting, swaying rhythm-fest known as "Final Fatal Force" lives up to its title nicely; other solids include "Needlefeast" and "Grand Failure Anthem".

TRACK LIST: Bastard Chain/Like the Average Stalker/Needlefeast/Neurotica Rampage/The Analyst/Grand Failure Anthem/Structure Divine/Shadowchild/Final Fatal Force/A Predator's Portrait/Asylum Dance