Is "Naked" the name of the record, or is it a qualifier of exactly how one should beat his bone? We may never know the answers to questions such as these, however there is one thing that I do know? BEAT THE BONE rock pretty hard in a pretty unique way. Now, what I mean to say is that BTB (keep in mind that only the insiders can use the acronym) is not the band that is going to start a new genre, but what they do they do very well, incorporating varied influences into their music. On this molten platter, we have got some nu-metal, some post-grunge, some straight-ahead heavy metal, and some old-fashioned rock.

BTB is a three piece from San Bernardino CA, that has all the sound of a full five piece, with none of the filler or fluff. Brothers Ray (vocals, bass) and Lew (guitar, backing vocals) Nottke, together with skin basher Ray Seese have come up with a sound that will grow on you, not just another NU-metal experiment gone wrong. I saw shades of DISTURBED, GODSMACK, ALICE IN CHAINS, PRONG and a strong vocal resemblance to the original bad-boy of thrash himself, Dave Mustaine. As a matter of fact, if MEGADETH wanted to carry on without their troubled leader, Ray Nottke is a DED-ringer for Mr. Killing is My Business. There are some strong similarities to MEGADETH on the track "Far From You" , a great riff, coupled with Ray's vocal assault, a tight-ass tune, with a great chorus, and a cool solo. Track 6--"Walk Away" gives a great ALICEesque vibe, all the elements are here for a musical incision, layered vocals, a punishing guitar blast, you can't help but get a sore neck from this tune! The title track, "Naked" gives me the feeling that I am hearing PRONG at their prime. It has a slight industrial-type feel with the drums that keep you right on the edge of your seat, but are not over-done or over-powering. Very tight, with a great rhythm, and a feeling of precision. My favorite track has got to be the incredible "High Enough", it starts with a riff that would make Roy Z proud, and some guitar work ensues that should make Zakk Wylde notice, again the vocals are layered and there are even some harmonies (try to imagine harmonizing with Mustaine), and it really works for them.

These guys have nowhere to go but up, and they just started. They have been going to school (tour) with the likes of MAIDEN, HALFORD, QUEENSRYCHE, BROTHER CANE, DOKKEN, and MR. BIG. I predict even better things to come from BTB in the future. Send 'em some love at the link below and get a copy of this awesome CD, and oh yeah, downtune and beat the bone.

- Murtaugh

OFFICIAL SITE: myspace.com/beatthebone

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