RED FIST REVOLUTION - THE FALL OF GOLIATH

The Red Fist Revolution is upon us! This concept album put together by Ben Stewart (Conspiracy of Thought) takes elements of Muse, System of the Down and Nine Inch Nails and offers a solid release of hook laden modern hard rock/metal.

Entitled The Fall of Goliath, this is the story of a one man’s revolt against a worldwide government system. The concept is woven throughout the album’s 14 tracks. The included booklet gives you the complete lowdown on the intricate plot line. If Larry Norman were starting his musical career today this is the type of release he would have offered. Is Ben Stewart Christian rocks newest angry young man? Perhaps forceful enthusiasm is a better way to look at it.

Musically the songs are punchy and to the point. At times the groove forces one to start tapping their proverbial foot, modern guitar driven hard rock with keyboard and piano. 15 months of work have brought forth an album that goes beyond the safe bounds of the expected Christian artist. Songs such Working Class Automaton, Class War, Fall Goliath Fall and Down in the Valley deliver a thought provoking message of social conscience.

In a case where art mirrors life this album has many eerie parallels to what we have seen in the news in places like Egypt, Tunisia, and England. Whether you agree with the political statements, albeit within a story format, is irrelevant in one’s enjoyment of The Fall of Goliath.

The Fall of Goliath has strong production values. The palette of tones is strong with enough diversity within a strong continuity to provide a very enjoyable listening experience. This is an album that’ll give your ole woofers a workout.

This album rocks with a decidedly modern vibe and does it well. Youngside Records has really taken a step of faith and released an album that causes one to think, while rocking all the way. The Fall of Goliath might not be your normal musical faire but isn’t it good to mix it up once in a while.

7 axes

CONSPIRACY OF THOUGHT - NOTHING MORE THAN LIGHT

Ok this isn’t the normal bill of fare here at White Throne, but every once in a while I come across something that falls outside the norm that really grabs me. Coriolis and Leper were two previous excursions into the unknown, Conspiracy of Thought is another.

Short punchy songs with good hooks dot the landscape of their 2009 release Nothing More than Light. Yes this disc is from 2009, but having just landed in my hands the urge to share the wealth was great. With a sound more akin to Linkin Park or POD than Slipknot, Conspiracy of Thought have crafted a fine album.

Plenty of powerful guitar with strong melodic arrangements that are more memorable than worthy. However elements of funk and hip hop swim to the surface as well, yet the indelible mark of rock n roll remains intact.

With lyrics that demand social action and thought provoking questions, the spiritual element is quite evident through out. Nothing More than Light isn’t a one trick pony lyrically. A lyric sheet wasn’t provided with my copy, but the vocals of Ben Stewart are a huge standout. His vocal tone is superior, and his annunciation is of high note.

Conspiracy of Thought are a fine band and Nothing More Than Light is a solid album. Hopefully they’ll get to perform a Northern California show and I can give a live review, but at this point I would really encourage you to check out Nothing More Than Light. A good album that shows promise of something even better in the offing. Recommended.

7 axes