Joe D. Carpenter is a hard man to keep up with. Prolific
while keeping a high level on his recordings is quite an accomplishment,
especially when you consider he has released 10 very, very good EPs in the span
of two years. In this piece, you, dear wave rider, will be treated to his
latest 4 creations, '*7*', 'New World Sheep', 'The Great Illumination' and 'Avdi Vide Tace'.
*7*
A creepy yet wonderful Twin Peaks
interlude starts this EP which come in two halves. The first half is intense
and instrumental and leans a lot towards speed metal with a crisp clear sound
and excellent musicianship. Good ol' death metal appears as well. The second
half brings the vocals while the music is slower, more punishing akin to
Killing Joke. In fact Joe does a killer versions of their song 'Total
Invasion'. A great mix of songs and tempos, this EP elegantly continues Mr.
Carpenter's awesome discography.
'New World Sheep'
This is a fast and furious mix of thrash and speed metal.
Totally in-your-face, angry and no holds barred. All songs are intense and
neck-breaking for sure in all their beauty. The only difference is 'Feasting On
The Dirt' which is slower and different. Contrary to its predecessor, 'New
World Sheep' is all vocals and that works perfectly with the attitude of these
songs. It adds to the anger and brutality of them in a way instrumental
compositions couldn't. Great songsmithing, indeed!
'The Great Illumination'
Joe is steering back towards '*7*' and the Killing Joke
influence. It's most apparent in the vocals but not completely. The pace is
slower and lyrics and approach veer towards the wonderfully crazy Brits. And
the addition of a couple of instrumental compositions - with some amazing
guitar playing - heightens the quirkiness and weirdness of Jaz Coleman and
Company. Absolutely love this EP and as usual, Joe goes from strength to
strength.
'Avdi Vide Tace'
The title, which is taken from the Freemasons, roughly
translates to "hear, see, be silent" but to me it also refers to
society of today. We are allowed to observe what goes around us with our eyes
and ears but stay silent, don't oppose. I might be wrong but that's how I perceive
it. This EP starts with a sweet, short bluesy instrumental, but from then on is
full frontal onslaught...for the most part! In between all the heaviness the
ever present Killing Joke appears, hell Joe even adds industrial undertones in
'Nothing Awaits'. Another new touch is the cinematic feel in a couple of the
instrumentals. Excellent as always, Joe!
10 EPs in and Joe still keeps it interesting and new while
honing in on a stable, familiar sound. And that's how I like it. Mix
familiarity with new colours and you'll have a bottomless well as your muse.
And Mr. Carpenter sure have found that fountain and with his talents he
definitely knows how to use it. Keep it coming, Joe, I can't wait to hear more!
-Swedebeast
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