---

Another release from the blossoming German label Denovali Records, pitting apocalyptic sound sculptors Coffin Dancer with the aggressive sounds of Kidcrash.

Coffin Dancer's recent album Pax Romana was a beguiling mix of Neurosis dynamics married with Slint structures, and "Pilgrims" (clocking in at over ten minutes long) is again heavy on the epic scale. The Miami quartet has a unique ability whereby they can weave between stunning heaviness and peaceful tranquility at the blink of an eye. And they turn on the style for this release, with ferocious guitar work, towering percussion and anguished vocals that combine to make a sound that could raise a building to the ground.

Kidcrash recently had their Jokes LP released by Denovali, but they do not match Coffin Dancer's intensity on this effort. Still, "Waterweed" is a tenacious blend of post-hardcore stop-starts and intricate guitar lines. Kidcrash are at their best when they let loose with crashing percussion, distortion and throat-shredding vocals. Unfortunately, their better material can be found on Jokes, leaving an impression that this band is capable of so much more.

---

Reviewer: Michael Henaghan Added: August 19th 2007