Macabre is Chicago’s metal trio specializing in writing songs about serial killers. They’ve turned murder and horror into art form with a good dose of humor in it. Carnival of Killers is their first album in nearly a decade, and it certainly has the makings of a classic.
What really strikes me about this record is the excellent musicianship. This isn’t just a regular heavy metal record; these guys can play. That’s been obvious for years, but they continuously get better as the years go by. It is safe to say the members of Macabre are extremely accomplished in their respective fields of instrumentation. Adding elements of jazz and fusion really enriches their brand of heavy and makes it unique. Also, there are very unusual time changes which will challenge the listener into repeated plays. The excellent production makes all of these factors stand out even more.
After 35 years in the business, Macabre had developed a style, or a brand if you may. What they are able to show now is how comfortable they feel navigating within that style. There are plenty of left and right turns, use of the nursery rhymes, or some classic folk melodies. Their creative juices (and blood) are still flowing. It isn’t just a thrash metal record, but a cultural experience.
Carnival of Killers proves that murder metal is alive and well, and Macabre is still full of crazy ideas well translated into music. This is an excellent record that only gets better with each listen. If you were a Macabre fan already, you will find it very enjoyable with some unexpected surprises. If Macabre is a new band to your ears, this is a great start, but be ready for a long ride into the past. And if you’re from Chicago, we’ll be seeing each other at the Macabre’s annual Christmas show, and I hope they will play this gem in its entirety. No need for further deliberation, Carnival of Killers is an instant winner!
Mark Kadzielawa
No comments:
Post a Comment