Rating: ****1/2
King Analog is the brainchild of solo multi-instrumentalist Joe Difonzo, who promises to create a wall of sound that is equal parts psychedelic rock and riff-heavy metal. The album draws on influences from Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Mastodon, Opeth, Russian Circles, and Tool, but it also has its own unique sound.
That sounds pretty badass if I'm being honest. I haven't rocked out to trippy metal in a looooong time on this here blog, so I'd be lying if I said I wasn't ready to rip this one up.
Metal can be difficult to review because the love of it lies in the eyes (I rhymed there, unintentional) of the beholder. One person's treasure, will sound like trash to another. As a metal fan, I promise to still remain objective. It's my job.
I'm gonna drink black coffee and take a walk on the treadmill while I digest "King Analog".
Be back soon.
I'm gonna forgo my usual track-by-track and just say this: King Analog's self-titled debut album is a sonic assault that will leave you breathless. The album is a masterclass in organized chaos, with each track blending elements of metal, prog, and psychedelia into a cohesive whole.
The album opens with the title track, a pummeling instrumental that sets the tone for the rest of the album. "Overdriver" is a catchy, riff-driven track that will get stuck in your head, while "Lowider UFO" is an explosive and chaotic track that will blow your mind. It's really so fucking good.
Throughout the album, King Analog showcases their mastery of their instruments. The guitar work is particularly impressive, with Joe Difonzo and his bandmates weaving intricate melodies and solos into the songs. The drumming is also top-notch, with James Knoerl providing a solid foundation for the band to build on.
If you love Joe Satriani as much as you love Ministry, this is gonna hit all the right notes. Super impressive stuff.
If you're looking for an album to make you feel like you're losing your mind, then King Analog is the album for you. It's a dark, twisted, and twisted journey into the depths of your soul. So put on your headphones, crank up the volume, and prepare to be transported to a place where the only thing that matters is the music.
Or, you know, you could just listen to something else. I wouldn't recommend that, though. This is so close to 5-stars I can taste it. Nearly flawless.