The standout feature of their opener “Headache”, is the incredible pulsating drums, pretty much living up to the title of the track. Then the guitars kick in and it’s almost like a message to all the naysayers who claim that guitar music is on the way out. This is enough to silence any such ludicrous protestations. Following this, “Get Off” is the perfect example of how lo fi garage rock should be performed – a simple Ramones-esque riff coupled with Cobain -style vocals shows this is a winning formula. There are even nods to early 90s post-hardcore. For those who may not be familiar with the likes of Hot Snakes, “Rats” is the perfect introduction, mastering the dynamics required to deliver more sublime noises.
Next we stumble across “Wet Blanket”, warranting another seal of approval. It’s not until “Wasted”, though, that Metz strike a real party vibe and it’s as if 1992 had never ended. Whether ironic or not, it’s still a lethal and hectic slice of grungy chords which shows how a simple “verse-chorus-verse” can enthral, even though it happens so rarely nowadays. There’s an old fan favourite to be found in the form of “Negative Space”, another unpolished cut added with jet engine sounding guitars on the verge of exploding. And so to the final track “- – 00–” where there’s a real highlight to be found. It seems the perfect idea to add as much feedback as possible without destroying any equipment in the process.
Although there is nothing innovative or boundary- pushing to be found here, this is an excellent reminder of how exciting guitar music can be, particularly since bedroom producers have really taken off over the past few years. There is just something about Metz that I can’t exactly put my finger on, but they have nailed their sound to the point where very little is needed to perfect it. This is not just the best debut you will hear all year, but the best of the decade thus far.
[Rating:4.5]
