Alaska is one of those records that would have the poor record store employee scratching their head trying to figure out what section to file Between the Buried and Me. Hell, even us “music critics” find it tough to tell you exactly what BTBAM really sound like. The terms death metal, math metal or even hardcore are the first to come to mind, but none of these labels seem to justify Alaska.
If chaos could somehow be measured and controlled, BTBAM has figured out how to do it. From the opening track “All Bodies,” these guys spew through pulse pounding drums, throaty screams and powerful musical interludes that are filled with emotion. The tempo changes on each song give Alaska somewhat of a opera feel. Alaska is metal’s answer to Green Day’s American Idiot. These movement-like song structures can be heard on almost every song, but “Roboturner” is a great example. The drums on Alaska are really something to behold. Blake Richardson seems to fire away with superhuman power on the entire album.
Vocally, don’t expect to sing along with BTBAM in the shower, but Tommy Rogers’ quick bursting growls, croons and screams are fascinating. Listen to “Backwards Marathon” for an example of what I’m talking about.
Here’s two pieces of advice for potential listeners of Alaska. One, if you’re just getting into metal, BTBAM is a great place to start, and two, if you’ve got a heart condition, you may want to think twice before cranking this one up at home. I give Alaska a 9.5 (out of 10). Thank you BTBAM for being metal’s answer to Beethoven.
Suggested Listening: “Selkies: The Endless Obsession,” “All Bodies” and “Alaska”
Release Date: OUT NOW!
By: Adam K. Zakroczymski III – Senior Editor / Founder
