CD Review: Hour Cast

Hour Cast is an up and coming act out of Boston combining elements of metal and electronica, creating an interesting mix. As I listened to their debut EP, I couldn't help but think the sound was familiar, but I can't place it. I know there are similar acts on the tip of my tongue, but it isn't coming.

The self-titled EP was released earlier this year and shows a lot of potential. The five tracks contained create a mood of introspective aggression. Heavy guitar riffs, a driving drum force, vocals that are familiar, yet create an eerie feeling of unease.

The music is not perfect, like I mentioned earlier they are reminiscent of somebody, but I cannot figure out who it is. But maybe that is a good thing, a sound that is familiar yet different, something that nags at you trying to place it, while at the same time carving a niche of it's own.

The music itself has elements of metal, alternative, with an electronic touch mainly through the presence of keyboards. It is a full sound with complex arrangement. I don't think I would call any of them virtuoso's, but they each know their way around their instruments and they play well together. It will be interesting to hear their sound develop. The sound is big, yet comes across as personal.

Drummer and founding member Jerry Clews keeps a strong beat going in the back while guitar player David Henriquez's guitar work fills the soundstage. Bass player David Sullivan chugs along showing what he can do to add to the sound. All that while Patrick McBride's vocals rise and fall over the musical base. And on top of all that, there is still the inclusion of the keyboards and other electronic effects. They have a solid base to build a unique sound.

There are five tracks on their debut EP. Each one has it's own ebb and flow. From the outright aggression on display in "God Failed" to introspective and rather down beat "This Life" they are creating their own way. I must repeat myself to say that these guys could have a bright future, it will be interesting to see how they develop.

I recommend that you give them a listen, you may be pleasantly surprised.

Recommended.

Visit Hour Cast at their home.
The album is available at FYE.

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