Italy has been known for some extraordinary imports throughout history. Rock-n-roll has been one of them and a band by the name of Klogr, (pronounced Kay-Log-Are) are looking to capture the senses of hard rock fans with their unique blend of melodic heavy tones. Interestingly the origin of their name is a reference to the law of Weber-Fechner, developed in the second half of the 1800’s, which is known as the fundamental psycho-physical relationship (S = K log R). Together since 2011, they released their debut album Til You Decay that same year and followed with an EP entitled Till You Turn in 2013. Musically the band feels at home in the alternative metal genre which Klogr occupy alongside fellow countrymen Lacuna Coil, while still remaining unique to their own approach. Led by Gabriele “Rusty” Rustichelli (vocals/guitar, Giampi (guitar/vocals), Joba (bass), Ste (drums) and Eugenio (guitars/ vocals) the band are about to unleash their sophomore album entitled Black Snow. When asked about the concept behind the title of the record Rusty stated “Man has contaminated everything and his contamination was not always a positive thing. What was meant to be evolution is revealing itself to be an environmental and intellectual pollution heading to self destruction.” Heavy words, but thought provoking as well.
The twelve songs on Black Snow find themselves in most instances in the mid-tempo range which, while perhaps wanting some variation, nonetheless consist of strong song compositions. Noteworthy earworm-characteristics amid this cohesive album include the fast, exceptional opening song “Zero Tolerance,” along with “Draw Closer” and “Hell of Income.” Rusty’s rough vocalization fits perfectly in many tracks and really seems to stand out strongly on the atmospheric ballad “Heart Breathing.” His dark but affectionate singing brings life to the lyrics while the clarified instrumentation puts the final strokes on the painting. Mixing in more up-tempo thrash, rockers such as “Falling Crowns” and “Severed Life” have enough intensity to keep headbangers pleased while also provoking intrigue with their deep textures. Of course Black Snow needs a few listens to truly recognize and appreciate Klogr’s diversity and that all comes together with the well-paced somber closing of “Ambergris.”
Klogr will find a lot of new followers with Black Snow. The band proves they have the talent to write strong songs with catchy hook-lines from start to finish. Modern metal heads should check out this solid, forward-thinking rock-album, which is certainly a step in the right direction for Klogr. CrypticRock gives Black Snow 3.5 out of 5 stars.
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