Flotsam And Jetsam

Unnatural Selection (Metal Blade)
by Martin Popoff

This one’s whimsical cover art refers to the band’s self-image as worker ants toiling away at the middle of metal, where nobody seems to be watching. More line-up changes, but as long as Eric A.K. and Ed Carlson are aboard, you’re still going to get raucous, complicated metal that defines the best within certain obstinate boundaries. Faves like “Chemical Noose” and “Brain Dead” combine groove and seemingly long-lost NWOBHM ideas like Raven at their prime. But that’s the inherent problem with this perennially below-radar act finding new fans. Flotsam’s sound is just the commercial side of all permutations thrash, speed, power, or death, and their poignant, morose tones will, alas, remain the domain of a fervent but compact fanbase.
(2828 Cochran St. #302 Simi Valley, CA 93065)