Noise // Review
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CD: Wicked Released: 23 November 2006 |
The second album by Icelandic rockers Noise was released in 2006 under the title of Wicked and sees the band moving away from the direct and obvious influences of the likes of Nirvana and finding their own sound as they craft stronger and more original songs. More subtle influences such as Soundgarden or Stone Temple Pilots seem more applicable as Noise develop their songs from standard grunge to more thought out compositions.
Frontman Vilberg uses his voice more intelligently, the brash rawness that was present on the debut album Pretty Ugly replaced with more cleverly worked melodies that show his range and talent whilst still sounding quite pained sometimes. Hit & Run still shows off his more raw vocals though, and is perhaps my favourite on the album; there’s just something almost desperate about the chorus that makes your heart jump.
Tracks like Quiet show a slower more seductive and moodier side to Noise, a throbbing slow tempo that sucks you in. Fathead is heavier and a more progressive sound, not dissimilar to the heavyweights of the late 70s, but given a distinctive modern feel with Vilberg’s soaring vocals. The final track, So Long, is a dreamy almost acoustic number, with harmonised vocals, and an almost Spanish guitar, showing a whole different side to a constantly evolving Noise.
Wicked sees a more polished sound and production, and, understandably, a lot more maturity than on their debut album. But it’s achieved without losing the edge and inexplicable darkness that Noise carry around them like an invisible shroud.
Review by Lynn Wyeth
Track Listing
| Wicked |
[01] Ride the Wave |
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