Searching For Zero
Cancer Bats
•
March 27, 2015

These Hardcore-Punk-Metal guys from Toronto form to create the multiple JUNO nominated CANCER BATS. CANCER BATS have an alter ego band, BAT SABBATH, which only covers one of their main influence BLACK SABBATH; the guys pull much of their style from a Metal background. CANCER BATS released their fifth studio LP "Searching for Zero" on March 9, 2015.
This release is said to have a more natural and raw tonal signature, "bringing a bear-bones aural aesthetic to the material". It unifies the Thrashy Metal-tinged Hardcore of their previous releases. The melodic elements of this release, both musically and vocally, were inspired completely but CANCER BATS love for BLACK SABBATH. "Searching for Zero" comes from a place of heavy contemplation, even when they grew dark and grim. This album is a pursuit for passion, reinvigorating their drive to do right by themselves and the people those around them.
The album starts with "Satellites" which is one of my favorites on the track. It has more of a Rock flare with Punk undertones. The bass might play a part in why I like this track so much. There is lots and lots of bass play. I can't say I like the vocals. They are just not my style. I do like them when it's just the lead, the backing and screaming take away from the over all sound.
Track four "Beelzebub" I also really enjoyed. The track was more hard and less Punky. The vocals I really enjoyed in this track. They keep it less Punky as well. The music was sexy with twists and turns.
"Cursed with a Conscience" started off like something Id hear in a TOOL song. It is something a little low and progressive. However, The vocals turned it awkward with the chorus, like its almost rapped. This track is one that if the sound at the beginning had lasted it would have been another great one.
"Search for Zero" was a super Punk album with hints to Metal and Thrash. The screaming created the extremeness of the Punk elements. For me, it was too much. I really liked when the vocals went super raspy and more Rock, like in the beginning and throughout track nine "DUSTED". The musical ability is totally legit and deserves to be honored. It was a creative endeavor musically. The guitars were beautifully done, the bass was incredible and the drums were kick ass. This album is OK, I think you'd really like it if you like a more of the Punk vibe.
6 / 10
Had Potential

"Searching For Zero" Track-listing:
1. Satellites
2. True Zero
3. Arsenic in the Year of the Snake
4. Beelzebub
5. Devil's Blood
6. Cursed with a Conscience
7. All Hail
8. Buds
8. Dusted
9. No More Bull Shit
Cancer Bats Lineup:
Scott Middleton - Guitar
Liam Cormier - Vocals
Mike Peters - Drums
Jaye R. Schwarzer - Bass
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