“Isolation (Desperation)” is a really strong opener, a groovy and melodic track. The title track is more intense and heavier with riffs that are fast and thrashy at the beginning, then get thicker and more oppressive as the tempo slows. “Liquid Sky And Cold Black Earth” thunders along at a glacial tempo, an edgy ballad that has Windstein almost crooning.
There are a couple of average tracks (such as the instrumental “A Farewell To Misery”), but the overall strength of songwriting on Sever The Wicked Hand is excellent. Crowbar changes up tempos and intensities very well, with a little more emphasis on the slower songs. “Cleanse Me, Heal Me” is a standout, galloping along at a faster pace, and has a catchy chorus.
When it comes to NOLA sludge, Crowbar have been doing it for over 20 years and have paved the way for a lot of other bands. Sever The Wicked Hand has been highly anticipated by fans and critics, and while not perfect, is a worthy comeback and fine addition to the Crowbar catalog.
(released February 8, 2011 on eOne Music)
