It’s always refreshing hearing a band that doesn’t take themselves too seriously. Ontario’s Adrenechrome play metal that combines the thrash of Municipal Waste with the prog-infused sludge of Mastodon, and a tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. Veterans of the Canadian music scene, Adrenechrome have shared the stage with the likes of Exes For Eyes, Corrosion Of Conformity, and Green Jelly.
Tales From Adrenechrome is packed with frantically-paced thrash riffs that give way to bluesy prog-fests, while managing to sound “fun.” There’s really no other way to describe the mood here; it’s a fun record to listen to, with a great variety of sounds. Opening track, “A Familiar Face,” sounds like it belongs on a Torche record, before giving way to a fierce thrash attack that is reminiscent of the early material by Power Trip on the next track, “Lockstep.” The guitar work is fast and heavy when they play the thrashier material, then gets a bit bluesy/proggy when they break into the more sludge sounding riffs, often in the same song. Variety is the name of the game.
The production is pristine, offering a clean and clear sound, while avoiding sounding too processed. Adrenechrome switch between styles so quickly and skilfully, it’s really difficult to define them as being a part of any particular sub-genre. “Black Brubeck” has a banjo thrown into the mix, and it sounds completely natural, who else can do that (besides maybe Taake)? It’s really only a matter of time now before Adrenechrome become a household name in the metal world, and some major label will snatch them up. If Tales From Adrenechrome is only the beginning, I can’t wait to see what else is in store!