Griz My Evolution

Written by tinfoil on Monday, 04 October 2004 16:26

Rap and metal, a fusion first experimented with, at least in this reviewers memory, by Anthrax and Public Enemy. It enjoyed somewhat of a resurgence with the likes of Limp Bizkit and Linkin Park. Not content to leave well enough alone, Griz has decided to lay the smack down with some seriously heavy new tracks.

I must admit to not being a big fan of the current crop of rap-metal bands. Linkin Park has never done it for me and Bizkit just got annoying as all fuck. It was with this jaded mindset that I unfairly approached Griz My Evolution. Thankfully the monster guitar sounds and growl of Griz vocals quickly separated him from the rest.

The first track, Hardcore, hits like a hammer and the assault on your senses continues with Save Me. Bang, Bang, Bang is a forceful and energetic shout out to all my U.S. soldiers at war that they should love, I know I do.

Now Ill admit that I wasnt looking forward to hearing the next track. Griz decided to apply his own style to Born to be Wild. Messing with a classic like that is just not something to be done lightly. Griz didnt disappoint. He was faithful to the original, changing it up just enough to freshen the classic a little.

The Good: The entire disc is a collection of honest, hardcore metal. Bang, Bang, Bang and American Freedom approach anthem status and not one track on the disc disappoints. Griz vocal work on most tracks is impressive and powerful, much like the man himself. The guitar work is simple but effective (and surprisingly good) and the rhythm section presents a tight beat for the man himself to expand.

The Bad: Griz attacks some powerful subjects but occasionally the lyrics fall short. Throughout many tracks Griz falls back on typical rap formulas, which is somewhat disappointing though Spiritual Awakening more than compensates.

Verdict: A powerful yet catchy biography. Griz has led a difficult life and has decided to tell the listener about it, perhaps hoping that by hearing his own story they will improve upon their lot in life. Would I have bought this CD after hearing a track on the radio? Probably not. Would it have been a mistake? Youre damn right. Its an inspirational disc with a lot of energy.

Recommended!

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