FILTER
"Title
of Record" (Reprise; 1999)
Reviewed by Jeff Rogers
Filter hit it big with a song about suicide
entitled "Hey Man, Nice Shot" from their debut CD, “Short Bus.” Many thought that the song was penned about Kurt Cobain but,
in reality, it was more aimed (for lack of a better word) at a politician named Budd Dwyer who committed suicide at a press conference while cameras rolled. With such an upheaval of notoriety,
one could just cash in on the single and be added to a Trivial Pursuit card. Filter, however are more talented than that.
“Title Of Record” is their sophomore effort and Richard Patrick (who is one
full half of Filter) toured with the earliest clan of NIN and he brings his teeth gnashing attitude and smooth vocal style to the forefront of industrial metal. The guitar is buzzing in many
parts; "Title of Record" is not solo driven but it held my attention. The most recognizable single would be “Take A
Picture”. It's melodic and radio friendly. Hey, every band needs at least one hook for radio listeners.
"Title Of Record," despite its plain name, is very much what you would want from a band that combines elements of NIN and industrial rock. Although it was recorded in 1999,
it still sounds fresh today because of the layers put into each track. Some songs have
a quiet style with whispering lyrics and then blasting guitar and drums crescendo. The record does slow down towards the
end but that’s my only complaint.
The best tracks are “Welcome To The Fold,” “The Best Things,” “Take A
Picture,” and “I Will Lead You.”
Filter: Richard Patrick - vocals, guitars, bass, programming; Geno Lenardo - guitars, bass, chorale sitar, mandolin, programming; Steven Gillis - live drums and percussion; Frank Cavanagh - bass.
For more information, check out www.officialfilter.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2006 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised: 01 Nov 2008 16:37:18 -0600.
