Crowbar

Time Heals Nothing (Pavement)
by Tim Creter

The sad, fat men of Crowbar have returned. The band that gives new meaning to the phrase, “fat music for fat people.” But all kidding aside, Crowbar is a powerful force in music. Back with 10 new tracks of pain and heartache on their third full-length, Time Heals Nothing. It is immediately noticeable that their songwriting has improved since their last album. They are not just playing that slow slug stuff, but using more energy and groove, making this album a helluva lot more brutal.

It seems strange, but I’ve known about Crowbar inadvertently my whole life. I read a review of their first album, Obedience thru Suffering, in Circus Magazine years ago, and they were described as “grungy.” They were also the first band I ever saw live, opening up for Pantera. And here I am reviewing them now, just because their CD was handed to me.

Sorry for the interlude, but I thought reflections were in order for this band I’ve grown with. The only problem I’ve always had with Crowbar, and it’s not just this album, is Kirk Windstein’s vocals. The anguished sound in his voice is both annoying and cheesy. With these feelings, I run into conflict with Crowbar – I love the music, but I hate the vocals. Well, anyway, it boils down to this: Time Heals Nothing is a great album for its musical heaviness and oppression, and if I could get past the vocals I would probably listen to it every day. I have to say it’s superior to their past offerings, and a must have for anyone who enjoys their music mean and heavy.