Skrape Albums (2)
What The Critics Say
Skrape's sophomore effort builds on the promise of 2001's New Killer America with a set that continues cracking the nu-metal mold while staying cleverly within it. "Bleach" and "I Can't Breathe" contain universal angst ("I can't think when you complicate me") and breathy, layered vocals; "Stand Up (Summer Song)" channels P.O.D. for an uplifting post-grunge vibe. Dose's harder fare lets Skrape rock without as much worry over what nervous ninny suburbia will think. Bassist Pete Sison gives both the title track and "Habit" a powerful, sludgy bottom end, and the guitars of Brian Milner and new guy Randy Melser (who replaces Mike Lynchard) cut and parry with real metal meat. Up the Dose's best moment might be "Syrup," an atmospheric later-album track that leaves plenty of empty space around its spidery guitars and plodding percussion, capitalizing the chorus when it finally lurches into gear. The song slides in the slime between early Soundgarden and modern metal, and its final, aggressive tempo change only makes it more effective. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide
What The Critics Say
Skrape's 2001 debut album New Killer America brings hard rock to the forefront with a dazzling display of creative intensity. Due largely to the production of Ulrich Wild (Powerman 5000, Static-X, Taproot), the album takes on a very groove-based, mysterious aura, which tracks such as "Isolate" and "Sunshine" best demonstrate. Raw guitar riffs are combined with a very catchy, overlaid vocal hook on the album's first single, "Waste." The band's energy seems to be directed toward song craftsmanship; every song flows very nicely and has its own distinct vibe, while sticking to the overall concept of the album. The guitars tends to sound slightly dry and dull from time to time, which can relate to the lack of creative range in the heavy hard rock genre. New Killer America is obviously intended to quell this obstacle, as it does with much style and grace on most tracks -- especially "Sleep," a very melodic tune that, despite its title, really awakens the senses toward the end of the album. This album presents a very bright and intelligent approach to hard rock. ~ Jeremy Ervins, All Music Guide
