Mohicans, the San Francisco-based quartet, serves up a brash form of metallic hardcore music on their latest, self-titled album. This is only their second release in the last three years, the self-titled follows a three-song demo in November 2012. While they may not have a full discography yet, what this self-titled EP from Mohicans shows is a band who knows how to channel their influences well and create an entertaining listening experience.
Anything that calls to mind Remission-era Mastodon immediately piques my interest. This EP is rife with sludgy riffs from the guitarists, Zac Terrones and Brian Williams, who lay a murky foundation for singer/drummer Chris Palomarez's harsh punk vocals. The EP gains an extra layer to it thanks to meaty bass lines from Justin Shearer. Each of the six songs on this EP are certified headbangers. They're quick and fiery (the longest song is the opener, "Eagle", at 3:11), and spiked with the vitriolic lyrics spit from Palomarez's mouth that appears to draw inspiration from Black Flag or Agent Orange.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable EP. It's not reinventing any wheels, but it serves up some quality down-tuned, up-tempo, sludgy hardcore worthy of a listen. It is also cool to note that the EP was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Jack Shirley at The Atomic Garden, so there is some pedigree behind this release as well (He helped construct Deafheaven's New Bermuda, Sunbather, and Roads to Judah). Mohicans' self-titled EP got a physical release through Creator-Destructor Records. Give it a spin and bang your head! I included my favorite song from the EP below.
7.5/10
