I'm not really sure what a BLACK ELK is or exactly what kind of image it conjures up, but after hearing the self titled debut album from this obnoxious band out of Portland, Oregon, the name seems appropriate. It's loud, ferocious, dark, and melodic and did I say obnoxious? Well I mean that in a good way…a very good way.

From the opening noise guitar intro of "Toggle", sounding like a mud flap caught in a drive train, it becomes obvious that you'd better hang on to your speakers. This ain't gonna be a pleasant ride! A defiant throwback to early / mid 90's Chicago and Seattle bands, BLACK ELK can draw comparisons to seminal acts such as TAD, MELVINS and THE JESUS LIZARD on pure, undiluted power and energy alone. Other influences by iconic bands such as SABBATH and FLOYD can be detected in their masterful dark, psychedelic arrangements. This isn't just a bunch of angry and uncontrolled noise -- there is definitely great songcraft going on. There's order in the anarchy, I guess you could say. Angry vibes, yes, but their melodic sense is nothing short of brilliant at times. Track 4, "Eyebone" is a perfect example. The song starts out with a head-cracking frenzy, then a little under two minutes in slows down to an evil, melodic instrumental bridge conjuring up memories of 'Born Again' era SABS. High point would be the closing track "Who Knew", which oddly enough made me think of the 90's metal band WARRIOR SOUL. The album is full of moments like this.

Although some may detect a hint of this or a hint of that on this album, I would not say that BLACK ELK really wear their influences on their sleeves. They just don't. The disc simply shows the diversity of the band. This isn't grunge fueled "Black Floyd"; it'sa hardcore-driven rock band that just happens to play with a ton of aggression. Plus, they how to write great songs with great arrangements. BLACK ELK may not be for everyone, but that's the beauty of any great band right? Simply put, this is BLACK ELK. If you like most of the bands mentioned here you will love these guys. If not give them a listen anyway.

- Peters

OFFICIAL SITE: www.blackelk.net

MP3 SOUND SCRAP: Elk Takes Night

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