Riotgod - Invisible Empire ...

The newest album by the side project of Monster Magnet rhythmic section Jim Buglino and Bob Pantella has one main inspiration, which might turn out as their biggest flaw: they are in love with the early grunge sound. The guitars, the feel of the melodies, and even more, the style of the vocals are a total, unashamed throwback to the sound of “Badmotorfinger” era Soundgarden. A song like “Crossfade” could literally be mistaken for a lost outtake from those days.

And this whole vibe permeates the record through it's every note, allowing even a couple of nods to the sound of early Alice In Chains. That, to a lot of people, could sound like a sign of a “derivative” band. But to me, it's a good thing. Yeah, the band embraces the sound almost to the point of homage. But it's done so well and effortlessly, with so much skill and ear for great songwriting that I know, I will listen to this album repeatedly.

True, there's many bands who are doing this sort of retro riff rock mixture, inspired by the golden age of Seattle. Especially since highly overrated bands like Wolfmother made it marketable again. But in this case, its good. The riffs are big and groovy, the hooks are strong.




Mark Sunshine's powerful yelp, inspired, obviously by Chris Cornell, but even more by Robert Plant and even By early Coverdale, sells the songs to me and mixes with the band's honest and raw love for old school heavy rocking, creating an album that, to me, surpasses the début and is, if not a “classic” or a groundbreaking record, an album that sticks in my ears and makes me feel good. So, if you like the sound, don't hesitate and buy this. You wont be disappointed. 7.5/10

Words: Andrea Contanzo

Riot God @ Myspace