CD Review: Paint It Black

CD: Paradise

While the barking, aggressively urgent vocals of Dan Yemin lack melody in the classic sense of the word (read: no effete emo falsettos or studio-enhanced polishing), Paint It Black’s music definitely does power along atop glorious, quick bursts of well-orchestrated melody. For the most part, it’s purposefully hidden under layers of brutal, pounding, vintage NYC Hardcore riffs that change tempos when you least expect it and abruptly end just when you’re completely digging the high-volume vibe and are preparing to chant along. Sometimes the melodious energy put forth by Colin McGinniss (Guitar), Andy Nelson (Bass) and David Wagenschutz (Drums) just can’t be contained and busts through to the surface, check out the inspired openings of “Pink Slip” and “Ghosts” the brilliant guitar work on “Athiests in Foxholes,” it’s darn near pretty!

“Paradise” is an expert mix of Bad Brains manic speed crashing into the heavy heart of early Black Flag, exploring the intense pain of an unjust war as well as personal hell like crumbling relationships and a near death experiences (Dr. Dan Yemin had stroke a while back). This J Robbins produced slab of ferocity is not for the meek and that makes me oh so happy. It’s a personal treasure just for me (probably not you) that spews a hearty “eff you!” to all the weak-kneed, violin-accented faux punk that the kids suffer through today.

Between songs, someone jokingly asks, “Is this too manly? This could get some one pregnant!” Take a listen to “Exit Wounds” (Free MP3!) and if that doesn’t foment the happy anger inside of you, then don’t bother with the rest of the CD. Paint It Black isn’t just the best hardcore band in Philly (that’s quite obvious), they’re the best true hardcore band making music today. BTW, if you don’t have it, definitely pick up “CVA,” their Jade Tree Debut. It’s equally outstanding.