by Chance Chamberlain

Snap Reactions is a column where two new albums and one classic album are reviewed briefly after just one listen, providing instant thoughts and feelings often lost with multiple listens of an album. This week’s releases are strong with Creeping Death’s “Wretched Illusions” and Sturgill Simpson’s “Sound & Fury.” The classic album of the week is Black Sabbath’s “Vol.4.” 

 

Creeping Death – Wretched Illusions

Creeping Death is much like a hybrid band. They incorporate elements of both hardcore and death metal in their music. “Wretched Illusions” is an exciting example of how the band mixes genres. The instrumentation throughout shifts between hardcore breaks and death metal riffs seamlessly. Although the band blends different sounds, they still wear their influences on their sleeves. Sounds from Sepultura and Bolt Thrower bleed out of “Wretched Illusions” without hindering the bands’ unique sound.

 

Sturgill Simpson – Sound & Fury

Sturgill Simpson is back with a brand new sound. His latest effort “Sound & Fury” is a 41 minute ride with polished production. This comes as no surprise because legendary producer Rick Rubin lent a helping hand in making the project sound great. Simpson leaves his outlaw country sound in the rearview as he wails over rock n’ roll instrumentation, channeling his inner Black Keys. Simpson evolves his sound into a more mature version of what he has been chasing the last few years. The message he preaches on “Sound & Fury” remains the same, it just has a sonic facelift. 

 

Black Sabbath – Vol.4

Black Sabbath released Vol.4 on Sept. 25, 1972, their fourth release in three years. The album features a 10 track, 42 minute ride that includes some of the earliest traces of modern metal. Distorted guitar riffs sing from Tony Iommi’s strings while Ozzy belts with great passion and force. “Vol.4” follows a pattern that changes the tone of the album from song to song, going from heavy and forceful to slow and sad. There are elements of blues, metal, and folk sprinkled throughout, leaving the listeners on the edge of their seats.