styles like a well-oiled machine . Collins ’ work on the record proves that he is not only one of the tightest bass players in Ohio , but also one of the most versatile . From one song to the next , he effortlessly moves through various playing styles and techniques . Collins is a thoroughbred in a world of one-trick-ponies .
Vocally , Dread Engine ’ s two-headed monster is on proud display again . Rick Kearcher ’ s brutal screams slice through SAM STOCKDALE ’ S booming baritone like a speedboat crashing through the waves on the ocean . Lyrically , this album is a continuation of the heavy themes on the band ’ s earlier work . The difference on this album , is that the lyrics--as well as the vocal arrangements--have a heightened sense of focus . Many bands that feature two vocalists have issues effectively deploying their singers , but not Dread Engine . They strike the perfect balance that suits the song , not the singer . That isn ’ t always easy to do . When he isn ’ t screaming through this record , Kearcher also lays down keys and digital samples that enhance the music without feeling like a gimmick . Many metals bands have tried to do this in the last 20 years , and most have failed . I must also offer kudos for Kearcher on the fantastic job of producing this record . I can tell you from experience , it is a challenge to record your own band , and the end result of this production is top shelf .
While the intent of this article is to review the album , I would kick myself if I didn ’ t also take a moment to tell you all about the album ’ s release show . As I pulled into the ALROSA
VILLA , I felt conflicted . Not only is this venue associated with a very dark moment in metal history , but it is also the place where I stopped being a metal fan . In my time in the metal scene , I saw a lot of needless backstabbing among the bands . It didn ’ t take long before that hierarchy spilled into the fan base . As someone who experiences some slight success compared to my peers , I was still made to feel like an outsider who was no longer welcome , just by being a little different . This is a mindset that plagued the Alrosa and the Ohio metal scene at large for nearly a decade . As I got out of my car , two things were certain : 1 . I was the only one who pulled into the venue listening to VIOLENT FEMMES , and 2 . I haven ’ t seen this many cars in the parking lot in a long time .
You could barely walk through the venue , and you couldn ’ t walk 10 feet without accidently ending up in a conversation with a total stranger . This was not the same Alrosa Villa I knew in my college years . The bar was absolutely filled with yellow Dread Engine shirts sold prior to the band ’ s set . The whole night had a vibe that felt more like a family reunion than a metal show . Most bands try to build a fan base , but Dread Engine is building an army , and it ’ s led by a General named Sam Stockdale . While the entire band is entertaining onstage , Stockdale is a hurricane of passion all the time . His simple presence on the smoking patio was enough to whip the crowd into a frenzy . For a moment , I thought we were going to invade a neighboring town . Instead , he preached a message of passion for the people and passion for the scene .
This show felt like it could be a defining moment for metal in Ohio . A dam burst open , washing away ten years of bad vibes … and left nothing behind but the feeling of community we all were pining for . The night ended with the members of every band on the bill taking the stage . As a collective , the mob that was at least 20 people strong , joined together to perform Dread Engine ’ s biggest hit , “ Coward ”. It was one of the most inspiring moments of unity in the local music scene that I can remember — and a prime example of the band ’ s philosophy and personal mantra , “ many parts , one engine ”. Stockdale is humble enough that he will be embarrassed by my “ General ” analogy , but we have known each other long enough that I don ’ t mind embarrassing him . He and his bandmates did a great thing that night . I personally believe that if Dread Engine stays as humble , hungry , engaging and passionate as they are now , it won ’ t be long before they are that band we can ’ t escape on rock radio .
Check out Dread Engine at www . dreadengine . com and https :// www . facebook . com / dreadengine . Buy the album on all major online retailers .