Kick The Wicked - Drag Magnet

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The more some releases seem to be uncompromised (in other words, free of higher commercial ambitions) or with some old (and moldy) conceptions, the more they’re good. It makes things center in what really matters: music itself. And for ‘free of conceptions’ means something that isn’t forced to be in a determined way to satisfy the public or the system. As an example, the EP “Drag Magnet” of the North American trio KICK THE WICKED is a fine example of these words. The band isn’t forced in a direction, but blend aspects of Metal, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Alternative Rock, but with a modern and refreshed form. It’s melodic and aggressive in the same proportions, but always in a form that allows their melodies to be expressed clearly.

These songs are full of excellent hooks, choruses that are in a trend ‘you-hear-once-you’ll-never-forget’, and this savage and untamed energy that flows from the ban’s five songs makes the fans asks why in the blazes they didn’t release an album instead of an EP. The sonority the band got on “Drag Magnet” is something defined for keeping things in a high level of comprehension, especially on their more melodic moments.  But the level of aggressiveness comes from the modern set of tunes used on the recordings, creating a massive and weighty outfit for the songs.

“Spill It Out” opens the EP with a simple technical appeal, reminding a lot what METALLICA used on “Metallica” (the famous “Black Album”), or in other words, an improved weighty approach tempered with catchy melodies inherited from Hard Rock (and what very good work shown by the vocals). Based on modern melodies and a neck crushing set of tempos, “Mr. Know It All” is really a great song, especially due the guitars riffs and arrangements that fill all the spaces, and what lovely chorus (some temper coming from 60’s Rock ‘n’ Roll is clear). Using some Rock ‘n’ Roll and Hard Rock (and even some Rock Arena accessible touches during the chorus) basic elements, “Blinded by the Lie” is a mighty blow in the ears, tempered by strategically poised keyboards parts, and bass guitar and drums are guiding things wisely on the rhythms. A dirty groove and parts inherited from Funk fills “Free Me”, in a modern tendency that is between Alternative Rock and Stoner Metal. And in a more introspective and deeper way, “The Journey” is introduced, but soon some heavier elements tempers the contrasting heavy moments of the song.

This EP is really something great to hear a thousand times, and again the same question must be given to KICK THE WICKED: why in the blazes isn’t “Drag Magnet” a full album?

Songwriting: 10
Musicianship: 10
Memorability: 10
Production: 9