If it’s on Ipecac, you know there’s going to be something quirky or marginally unpalatable about it- right? Not so with Unsane’s newest offering, Visqueen. The ninth full-length release from the NYC-based noise-rock pioneers, Visqueen makes its mark with a heavily distorted and driving sound, layering percussive vocals ala Page Hamilton on top in a more accessible manner than previous albums.
The disc’s opening and arguably strongest track, “Against the Grain,†features an unexpectedly melodic guitar that both maintains a cohesive melody and entrances the listener with its tightrope quality. It careens to the edge and almost falls off tone, but manages to pull itself back on balance at the last minute. It bends and pulls the hollow notes in a rockabilly style, a sharp contrast to the otherwise dark and distorted sound. This sonic disparity continues throughout the album, adding an unexpected element to what would otherwise be mostly dry and ordinary songs.
Visqueen’s most obvious downfall is that the vocals are way too low in the mix. The rest is gloriously sludgy and powerful, but tends to overwhelm the staccato shouting of vocalist Chris Spencer. The production would also benefit from having the tracks cleaned up a little bit; the bass gets lost in the mix and the guitar verges on too dirty at times. It trips over itself and doesn’t allow the listener to accurately discern the notes. Additionally, the drums need more low end to really carry this hyper-agitated stoner rock style well.
Overall, it’s well worth a listen for anyone who’s game for a sped up, angrier, and more bluesy take on The Melvins. Good riffs, a unique bit of soulfulness, lacking in vocal hooks, but lacking the polish that could make this an outstanding album.
Website: Unsane
