Painted is an intimidating record, to say the least. Being only remotely familiarized with their previous works, I listened to Narrows’ most recent offering with great interest. Painted is there second full-length, following 2009’s New Distances and it should be no surprise that Narrows is signed to Deathwish, arguably one of the best labels in the genre. Considering the esoteric nature of most of Deathwish’s roster, Narrows fits well here. Painted displays its hardcore roots proudly, while not being shy to demonstrate its more metallic plumage. Considering the cross continent origins of Narrows (Seattle, San Diego, London), Painted is an impressive work in both sound and effort.
Painted pummels us from the very first second all the way to the very end. “Under the Guillotine” presents us with riffs that buzz like a terrible swarm and seek to crush all senses. I would not be the least surprised if by tracks end your not smashing your fists on some surface. “TB Positive” follows up on the aggression served in “Under the Guillotine” with its own biting edge that is awash with steady drumming and acrobatic riffs. The trudging guitar work stabs deeply throughout the record’s first four songs, rising and falling throughout “Absolute Betrayer” only taking time to catch its breath towards the end of the eight minute “Greenland.”
Catchy bass lines draw you immediately into “It’s the Water” while whinnying guitars keep you hooked on its intricacy. As “another fucking curse” is shouted, the bleakness for which Painted was created is summarized with clarity. Painted’s greatest strength is its judicious use of repetition and chaos with the record juggling the two opposites effortlessly, creating a seamless tapestry of splendid noise. “Face Paint” and “Final Mass” counter Painted’s earlier assaults with reserved ferocity that couples well with the increasingly airy riffs. By the time “SSD” plays, the record has distanced itself in both sound and emotion, creating such a strong dirge you cannot help but feel a little stressed by its end. “SSD” is one the records slowest tracks (the ambiance of “Greenland” hits that out of the park), with its final moments being highlighted by some truly emotive musicianship.
[audio:http://staging.cvltnation.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/05/08-SST.mp3|titles=SST]Narrows’ skill should come as no surprise given its status as a supergroup. While supergroups are subject to the same failure as any other band, the band members’ resumes read like a pantheon. Vocalist Dave Verellen (Botch), guitarists Ryan Frederiksen (These Arms Are Snakes) and Jodie Cox (Bullet Union), bassist Rob Moran (Unbroken, Some Girls) and drummer Sam Stothers (Makeout Boys) all bring with them a key to the record’s unique sound. Any fan of brilliantly executed hardcore will fall for Painted’s brooding gravity and be better off having heard it.
Catch Narrows during their current West Coast tour and be sure to pick up Painted and their other releases at deathwishinc.com.
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