Caterpillar Tracks
Scrape the Summer
Phratry Records

Caterpillar Tracks has followed up their 2004 self-titled album with an EP, Scrape the Summer. Though it’s a short five-song CD, it packs an emotional punch. A split release on both Phratry Records and Bacteria Lounge, guitarist Dave Cupp’s own record label, Scrape displays noise and rock. Four of five songs are rock; one of five is noise. The four rock tracks display layered guitars, screaming vocals, solid thumping bass, and adept drumming. My problem with the singing is that Shane Johnson ruins his otherwise talented voice by screaming, and in doing so, renders the lyrics indecipherable. Known to be a socially conscious band, their best statement is their lyric-less-ambient-noise-drum-n-bass epic, and my favorite on the album, “Midnight at the Taser Ground”. Also the last track, “Midnight” leaves you with a hopeful feeling, because after the rhythm-less first five minutes with simulated grenade explosions and other destruction, a triumphant, powerful lead guitar line floats lingeringly above the fray, signaling that you have survived a track written by some disturbed individuals. Only one minute later, the guitar drops out again. You are left with a death march. Then the snare drum becomes a flickering heartbeat. Then it dies. Thank goodness. – Jonathan Mendick, Mannerist Zine

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Category: music   Tags: art