Kalas

Kalas

[2/5] While it’s kind of sweet to think that Kalas’ lineup includes Andy Branton, whose resume includes not only ’90s crust-punk weirdoes Grimple and Econochrist, but also a stint in Samiam, the second the vocals kick in on the band’s self-titled debut, you know who’s the star here. Setting aside his ax to concentrate solely on vocals, High On Fire’s Matt Pike indeed puts a mighty stamp across Kalas; unfortunately, removed from High On Fire’s grand, oppressive wall of hurt–most of which comes via his guitar amps–Pike can’t carry the show alone. It’s “heavy,” sure–drummer Scott Plumb achieves the right lag time between bass, hi-hat and snare; and Branton and fellow guitarist Paul Kott know where to lay their downstrokes-but, mired in pointless repetition and melodic dead ends, it’s also boring. There’s a type of fan that considers Pike untouchable, that considers him all of Black Sabbath’s best moves reincarnated in one body; and that’s not too far off the mark. But considering what makes a good song, which would you rather hear: these nine versions of “Sweet Leaf” or one perfect Sabotage ripoff?
(TEE PEE) Aaron Burgess