Botch re-release provides a well-mixed bag of older yet quality material
Originally released in 2002 by Excursion Records, Unifying Themes Redux is a compilation of early Botch material that has been re-released under Hydra Head Records. The album contains 17 tracks from Botch's earlier days, including 7" material and rare, unreleased tracks. While the songs on Unifying Themes Redux are clearly a bit less developed and typical of Botch's more familiar work, this does not seem to detract much from the quality and overall enjoyment of the album. With 17 tracks of varying length and intensity, the highlighting aspect of this release is the sheer variety that is found within the music. Super-raw vocals matched with groove-driven metalesque riffs and ocassional isolated basslines make for a very entertaining listening experience. The album's tracks range from short, unrelenting hardcore assaults to longer, more developed pieces with varying segments (especially note the 20+ minute 'Untitled' track). This raw, underproduced yet nonetheless entertaining compilation provides clear evidence for why Botch has been hailed as one of the most innovative groups to ever hit Hardcore's underground. Clocking in at over 70 minutes, Unifying Themes Redux serves a as true buried treasure for any Botch fan.
| Reviewer: Sean Butze Added: September 26th 2006 |
|
