Death Cassette is a Canadian punk band from Winnipeg, Manitoba that blends elements of grunge and hardcore.
The quartet comprise of Amanda Sousa (vocals/guitar), Lindsey Hawkes (guitar), Chuck Barchuk (bass) and Brock Macpherson (drums), Their sound is melodic, high energy, and vocally driven. They recently released a six track EP entitled `Get Rid Of It`
Opening salvo `Storm` is a grinding thrashing mix of fast paced grunge meets garage rock with a pounding drum beat, driving bass line, some blistering guitar riffs and vocals that really demand to be heard. A song that seems to predict a storm ahead but maybe it`s a metaphor for something more unsavoury on the horizon. The pace doesn`t ease up on the scorching `Reflector` that relates to the strength and energy that can be drained from you by a certain individuals of your acquaintance if you allow them into your life.
`Trapped` is a more reflective musing on the darker elements of unpleasant people in your life and trying to avoid them but it could well be a comparison to difficult thoughts that are running in one`s own head or imagination. A number that has an edgy vibe which I found pretty captivating. The blistering `Get Gone` deals with just wanting to get wasted and maybe feel some sensation. We enjoy a chugging guitar, understated bass and thumping drums which drives this piece along as Amanda shares her frustration not only sung but part spoken at times throughout. There`s a searing guitar solo in the latter section.
`Solstice` is an expansive, meditative, and contemplative number that addresses this time of endings and beginnings, a wonderfully all-encompassing and well-structured listen, that I found compelling. This six track extended play closes out with `Leech` and it races along with a diatribe about a partner who seems to suck the life out of you although you find it difficult, if not impossible to resist them.
There was so much to enjoy on `Get Rid Of It` and I suggest that if you tag Death Cassette as a punk band you`ve really missed the point as they are so much more. Amanda Sousa has a guttural voice at times but tracks like `Solstice` highlight a dexterity when required. The number are full of melodic tunes and thoughtful lyrics which at times seem fairly cathartic. This release runs at under twenty minutes, and I was left still thirsty for more which is hopefully what we will get as an album must be in the offing.
Rating 9 / 10
