Sometimes a band is so good that they forcibly take your attention. Such is the case with 12 Stones. Their new self-titled opus, out on Wind-Up Records, is a clever, masterfully done amalgamation of styles. It seems odd in precept, but 12 Stones brilliantly combines Melodic Hard Rock (with acoustic elements), Aggro Metal, and slight tinges of Moodcore. Imagine being somewhere in between Slipknot, Nickelback, and Staind.
Their debut work has made them more than noteworthy, it has made them revolutionary in form and function. This evolution of common styles comes from quality of their hybridization and use of skillful opposition of melody against aggression, not some odd-angled attempt at being different.
The vocals switch-off between growling bursts and deep, clean, angst-driven moodiness. The guitar assaults have moments of melodic, acoustical melancholy, then jumping to powerful, massive barrages of electrically charged anger. 12 Stones is both intense and insightful.
The best tracks include the rockin' “Broken” (the first single/video from the album), “Home,” “Soulfire” (a song about God), “My Life,” and “The Way I Feel.”
Overall, 12 Stones is easily one of the best new bands of 2002. Their fusion style of Melodic Moodcore/Aggro Metal is sublimely addictive. Stay savage. Farewell.
Related Bands: Staind, Slipknot, Nickleback, Creed, Nonpoint, Drowning Pool, Adema, Korn, etc.
Keep the faith, and the AGGRESSION. Peace.
Bill Vogel III
Email at: StrangeAeons@hatebox.net
Copyright 2002.
Courtesy of Stranger Aeons Magazine.
