Felskinn - Mind Over Matter

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Intro-free, "Mind Over Matter" by Hard Rockers FELSKINN crashes into existence right on the beat. The opener, "Close Your Eyes", is a no holds barred power punch right in the face, opening our own eyes to just what this band is capable of. With a heavy sound that falls somewhere in between the HALFORD project and GUNS 'N' ROSES, FELSKINN perform some darkly epic Heavy Metal that thrives on deep, low power chords, borderline Industrial drum beats, and bottom-heavy bass lines that all combine to form an ominous beast bent on world domination.

Much like the opening track, "Pictures In My Dreams", the record's second offering, explodes through the speakers second one with its rolling beats and vocals that alternate between menacingly whispered verses and tremendous chorus lines containing all of the emotion that makes Metal what it is today and has been for its entire existence. "Dying Man", the next song in line, exhibits a slower side of FELSKINN. This, in no way, detracts from the intensity already put on display by the previous tracks. There are bridges in this one that just thud like the raging heartbeat of a planet-sized monster, and as it progresses, the song gains more and more power. All things considered, the first three tracks prove to be a perfect way for FELSKINN to introduce themselves to their eager listeners.

As the album chugs along, singer Andy Portmann shares story after story chock full of details about his own personal strife and accomplishments, his lyrics hitting pretty close to home at times. A highlight on the album that reflects this vividly is the ballad "Our Favourite Game", which is poetry put to tune. While it is all at once apparent that the lyrics are derived from a deep and intimate hurt and longing, the music that accompanies them is equally impressive, creating a whirlwind of a song that one can just close their eyes to, and escape into another realm. This, to me, is where music becomes a sort of auditory art, showing its ability to paint an invisible picture that one can "see" within its sound. It is definitely a moment that exposes FELSKINN as true holders of that particular brush.

"Mind Over Matter" delivers catchy song after catchy song, making what is quite often a repetitive and recycled genre something enjoyable to listen to for its audience. With its fearless lyricism, rich sound structure, and attention to detail as it pertains to its mixing and production. This record delivers all the way through in a way that many others strive to, but cannot. The closing number, "I Hear You Calling", pretty much says it all. A thunderous track with a guitar solo that just rips, this one drops it heavier than anything else on the album, shutting it out with a bang. So, if you are looking for something new that won't go overboard and lose track of that Hard Rock / Heavy Metal edge, look no further than this blistering rocker from FELSKINN. I believe this record is a sure-fire way to fill that void.

Songwriting: 9
Originality: 8
Memorability: 8
Production: 9