Californian hard rock trio Throw The Goat have slowly been building a reputation. Known for their blend of influences across the rock and metal spectrum the band are back following 2012’s Black Mountain with their second record entitled Blood, Sweat & Beers. Does this new offering by Throw The Goat continue the band’s unique musical traits or does it fall flat on its face?
Easily the most enjoyable musical aspect of Blood, Sweat & Beers is the riffs. With the fusion of stoner and punk influences the record is absolutely jam-packed full of riffs that will hook you in an instant. Drown features an upbeat assault of the senses with riffs galloping replicating the heavy metal of old where as Swamp ticks the stoner metal formula in grand fashion. It’s testament for a band that clearly know how to hook the listener. It’s the record’s biggest calling card, with Brian Parnell’s guitar work being nothing but sheer excellence.
With much of the focus of Blood, Sweat & Beers being towards the riffs, throughout the record the contributions of the other band members does sometimes feel forgotten at times. It’s not that their efforts are lacklustre, it’s just not up to the same standard as the excellent guitar play. However when it all clicks, Throw The Goat are onto something truly special. All We Have‘s slow but intricate combination of bass from Michael Schnalzer and drum work from Scotty Incognito builds anticipation before the track explodes into ferocious pace where as Uprooted showcases the band’s more technical edge with a complicated bass pattern; all whilst Michael Schnalzer’s vocals roar above the chaotic sound. It’s absolutely relentless and incredibly satisfying.
Blood, Sweat &Beers is a record that won’t hook you on first listen but there are moments that make for one truly wonderful listening experience. Often there are times where the band appear repetitive butSw it’s important to remember that is exactly what Throw The Goat are aiming for; this is a record that aims to bring utter musical carnage and if that is what you are looking for, then this record will become an instant favourite in your musical collection.
Blood, Sweat & Beers is out April 20th via Regurgitation Records. For more album reviews like this please stay tuned to Rock Sins on a weekly basis!
