published: 21 /
3 /
2009
Label:
Small Stone Records
Format: CD
Unsubtle, but compelling stoner rock on debut album from Albany, New York-based group, Ironweed
Review
Ironweed's name and the title of their debut album. 'Indian Ladder', are both inspired by their local wilderness in Albany, New York, and these, along with the tribal image of the sleeve, blend perfectly with the album’s raw power.
Almost fading into stereotype, the opening track. 'This Faithless Will', proves that stoner-rock outfit Ironweed are a force to be reckoned with. Similarities drawn to the Red Hot Chili Peppers would be fair, but that is not to say Ironweed can be dismissed as formulaic stereotypes. Instead their frantic and raucous sound translates well through this album, and had this reviewer imagining they must be a powerful presence on stage.
Jeff Andrews on vocals makes for an incredible central figure from which the music revolves, but it is the duel guitars of Mike Guizzardi and Mike Vitali that deserve exceptional cred for some of the best guitar work I have heard in a very long time. Blending seamlessly with the music, yet at times coming to the fore, the guitars insinuate themselves with such force that they form the core focus of the album.
Standout tracks include the 'Lost and Forgotten', although the opening track “The Faithless Will” was for me the weakest on the album. Despite mixed quality in some of the tracks, this is nonetheless a very good album: raw, unsubtle and pounding; just how I like it.
Track Listing:-
1
This Faithless Will
2
Lost and Forgotten
3
Disconnect
4
A World Away
5
Thorn
6
Rid The Earth
7
A Penny For Your Prayers
8
Lifeless Coil
9
Vertigo
10
Death of Me
11
Moth
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