Described by some as a “four man punch in the face” and, “explosive, creative and unique”…there’s a lot of promise surrounding Oregon based alternative grunge rockers BLACK HARE. Inspired by the likes of CHIODOS and NIRVANA, we find the four-piece releasing their second album; “Seasons”…something tells me that it’s not going to be all Summery and fun…
Kicking the album off with “Break Away”…we’re greeted with some simple guitars, it sounds slightly promising at the very least, before the vocals start up that is. Zacky Settergren’s vocal tone is, for the most part flat and occasionally down right unpleasant, but he can deliver a decent growl which when utilised is more than welcome. With regards to the guitars and the overall vibe of the song, it’s got a slight MISFITS feel to it but sadly that doesn't save it. “Sin Tax” has a little bit more weight behind it, heavier in its alt/punk roots and again, musically, it’s enjoyable, but you can’t help but wish it was just an instrumental for the sections where Settergren isn't shouting.
The rest of the album is essentially more of the above; the odd shimmer of hope engulfed by poorly delivered vocals. Even the growls get on your nerves eventually and you just want the album to end, so when “Nite Lite” finishes and it does, there’s nothing but relief. As I said musically there is so much potential evident here; there’s an underlying quality to the album that can’t be denied, but it would benefit being used in a completely different band all together…such a shame. [4]
The album "Seasons" is available now on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/seasons/id879567891
Kicking the album off with “Break Away”…we’re greeted with some simple guitars, it sounds slightly promising at the very least, before the vocals start up that is. Zacky Settergren’s vocal tone is, for the most part flat and occasionally down right unpleasant, but he can deliver a decent growl which when utilised is more than welcome. With regards to the guitars and the overall vibe of the song, it’s got a slight MISFITS feel to it but sadly that doesn't save it. “Sin Tax” has a little bit more weight behind it, heavier in its alt/punk roots and again, musically, it’s enjoyable, but you can’t help but wish it was just an instrumental for the sections where Settergren isn't shouting.
The rest of the album is essentially more of the above; the odd shimmer of hope engulfed by poorly delivered vocals. Even the growls get on your nerves eventually and you just want the album to end, so when “Nite Lite” finishes and it does, there’s nothing but relief. As I said musically there is so much potential evident here; there’s an underlying quality to the album that can’t be denied, but it would benefit being used in a completely different band all together…such a shame. [4]
The album "Seasons" is available now on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/gb/album/seasons/id879567891
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