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True - Still Life

posted by: maurice on 24 February 2010

Geenger Records

When I first saw the name Geenger Records I automatically read "Geengeert" Records so I expected to deal with a Dutch political punk band. That isn't true because True is from Croatia and plays a mix of Death Metal with occasionally some Crustcore and Black Metal influences. They distinguish themselves from other bands by using the traditional Croatian instrument called Tambura. It's a long necked plucked lute known for its high tones.

The instrument is used in the intro, later on it comes back and forth in the no-nonsense oldschool Death Metal; as if Autopsy is mixed with Balkan influences. It gives a strange feeling to the music but it works, especially in the second song “Once”. In this song or in "I Kill for Nothing" the Tambura is played very fast, together with the fast metal riffs it creates a Black Metal atmosphere. As you can read, the band has several influences explored making 'Still Life' an original piece. That doesn't mean this is an outstanding record because the riffs are exchangeable and also the songs aren't catchy, sometimes even boring. Eight minutes of “Who Am I” is way too long.

Vocally singer Rtz666 is influenced by Max Cavalera during his 'Beneath the Remains' period and in the beginning of “Okus Crnila” I hear Sepultura, later on this changes to oldschool Death Metal. At the end of ‘Still Life’ I am fed up with the tone of the Tambura. Using the instrument is a nice invention but during the whole record they pluck the same tune on the Tambura.

Rating:

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Related bandprofile: True