PASSENGER


"Passenger" (Century Media)



Reviewed by Mike SOS

Combine In Flames plus Transport League plus Gardenian plus a Swedish bass player and you get what? The all-star metal outfit Passenger, whose 11-track self-titled CD kicks you in the head from the very first  moments of the electric opening track, "In Reverse." 

Citing Helmet and Handsome as influences, the down-tuned riffages and cleaned-up vocals of Passenger are a departure from the bandmember's day jobs, and the end result can almost be likened to nu-metal. Still, the post-hardcore sound mixed with these Swedes' undeniable Gothenburg roots contains sturdy hooks (especially on "I Die Slowly" with its memorable chorus), aggressive rhythms, and - above all - massive amounts of groove and soul, making this side project a triumphant metal release. 

If you dug the early '90s metal scene from NYC, chances are Passenger will be a favorite of yours, too. 

For more information, check out http://www.passenger.nu


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.


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Revised: 02 Oct 2023 20:52:58 -0400 .