Back when death metal first began as a bastard child of extreme thrash metal, a raw hardcore punk attitude was certainly not uncommon from the genre's early pioneers. Fast forward over 25 years since death metal's formation, and coming across an album that manages to (successfully) find a happy balance between death metal, thrash metal, and crust punk is near impossible. That is, until I've stumbled upon Bones, an agonizingly filthy trio hailing from Chicago, Illinois. On this, their self titled debut full-length, the band manages to pump out over thirty-five minutes of crushingly heavy extreme metal that should satisfy anyone in search of the true meaning of "old school". Bones may not have a sound that is revolutionary on the surface, but their dedication to death metal's roots is undeniably refreshing in today's scene... not to mention that the music absolutely kicks ass!
The music on Bones is just about as "old school" as it gets when we're talking about death metal. Expect a heavy dose of thrash influence, traces of doom metal and hardcore punk, an unpolished production, and a raw, primitive vocal delivery. Certainly not unlike the classic work of death metal legend Paul Speckmann with bands like Master or Death Strike. The songwriting is actually surprisingly strong, though, and filled with memorable riffs and frantic drum patterns - and that raw, "fuck you!" attitude makes this album a perfect sentiment to what rock and roll is actually about! The fairly interesting compositions and memorable riffs, often paired with terrific guitar solos, prevent boredom from ever settling in, and instead leave Bones an interesting listen for its full 35 minute duration. A raw, unpolished production also helps further emphasize the album's old school vibe, while still sounding professional and well-done.
All in all, this is a very successful debut full-length from Bones and a high recommendation to those who enjoy their old school death metal on the more primitive, punk-influenced side. I'd like to see a bit more originality and variation next time around, but by-and-large this is a tremendous album that should be making waves in the extreme metal community! 3.5 stars are well-deserved here. Great job, guys - I look forward to hearing more in the future!
Track Listing:
1. March of the Dead 03:41
2. Bloodlust 04:05
3. Bitch 05:56
4. Apocalyptic Warrior (Devastation cover) 04:19
5. Good Die Young 02:51
6. Slowburn 04:01
7. Lonely Death 02:21
8. 666 05:09
9. Delirium Tremens 02:54
Total Time: 35:17
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