Back when I was listening to everything with the stamp Horrorpunk on it I discovered a band called The Dead Next Door. I liked them, but never got round to buying a record of them. They have risen from the grave under the name Left Hand Black. So even if this self titled album is the debut album for this Swedish horrorpunk band, they are far from rookies.
That is immediately clear upon pressing play. These guys know what they are doing. What I like most about this album is the fact that they never ever slow down. This is high octane horrorpunk. In some way I am reminded of The Spookshow, their countrymen who released two excellent albums somewhere in noughties. This is far from a copy paste formula though. I hear some Blitzkid influences as well. Especially in “Behind The Green Door” and “Your Vice Is A Locked Room”. There is also some The Rosedales to be found in the mix, if The Rosedales would have ditched 80% of their rock ‘n’ roll influences. If these name drops mean nothing to you perhaps this will help you: mix Ramones and (Michael Graves era) Misfits.
Something I just need to mention is the production of the album. It hits all the right notes for me. The guitar sound is warm and full, the vocals are front and center, as they should be in this genre. But that bass sound! It’s clearly audible. I have said it before and will keep saying it: all bands should do this.
There are a few things that need to be fixed for this album to be a classic. Most of these high speed songs miss a big catchy chorus. I would love to hear some more of those on the next record. The singer is a bit limited and sticks to the same few notes the whole album. I think he knows his limitations and stays well within his comfort zone. I do wish to hear slightly more variation on the next album.
Even if this album has thirteen tracks, it is over before you know it; it is a little under half an hour. It has a high replay value though, so I usually have it on repeat a couple of times before I feel the urgent need to hear something new. What I am trying to say is that these guys may not have re-invented the wheel, but this album is well worth your time. Check 'm out!
