Noise rock antecedent Swans are a benchmark for unease, and also it reminds one of the more godless moments of Sonic Youth. The antithesis of easy listening.
Opener “Worldsworst” has some sub-shoegazy aurality, a Hum vibe going on with barely discernible back-up vocals tacked onto the last third of the song.
The band plays heavy riffs mixed with changing and complex time signatures. It’s like their playlist is equal parts Dillinger Escape Plan and the Sex Pistols.
“Heavy Metal” is a melodic rock jam with some odd atmospherics, processed vocals, muscular guitars, and big drums courtesy of Cheap Trick’s Daxx Nielsen.
“Hit and Run” adheres to the power-poppy side of glam, sounding more like Enuff Z’nuff than dirtball Mötley CrĂĽe or nasty, Appetite…-era Guns N’ Roses.
Frank Black Francis can still write a weird, affecting tune. It’s folky, ethereal, and probably the best offering from new record, The Night the Zombies Came.