This promo CD managed to attract my attention by its magnificent - in my humble opinion - cover artwork. The cover and the logo really amazed me and prepared me for something that would really kick my sorry ass. I just hope the feeling I have is right and I won't be disappointed. Just give me some time to listen to it and make up my mind.

Formed in 1998 in Stoke, United Kingdom, CHARGER unleashed their first assault (or released their first demo, it depends on how you prefer to call it) in the same year. That demo CD seemed enough to secure them a contract with Undergroove Records, the label that still owns them. Nine years later and equipped with two EP's, one full-length album and a split CD with BLACK EYE RIOT, CHARGER return with their second studio album.

Many people say that the most crucial moment for a band is the release of their second full-length album. That is the time when the band will show if they can do something or it is better for them to quit and follow a different path. When I took a look at the track listing and the cover, I thought it was a Stoner band. I guess I was wrong. First of all, do not confuse this band with the British Heavy Metal band that has the same name. So, CHARGER's music is this doomy Sludge with the extreme hi pitched vocals that except from its obvious SABBATH influences reminds of bands like ACID BATH, BONGZILLA, EYEHATEGOD and a bit of CROWBAR.
The production is raw and of course this is what most of the band in this genre sound like. CHARGER's rhythms are really sick and slower than death for sure! If you are not used to this kind of music, do not even think of trying to listen to this band, you won't even stand a chance against 9-minute tracks! Oh, and do not think that the only thing they can do is play slow and groovy noise, but tracks like Cult Verses Cunt can make you headbang mercilessly to the insane tempo that resembles to some CONVERGE stuff!

CHARGER didn't manage to impress me so as to listen to the album for more than 4-5 times, but I really liked their style, a style I had a long time to come across. If you are into old school Sludge, you just found a more than great addition to your collection. The rest of you, better choose something else to listen to. Oh, and regarding the band's style, I guess I was not so wrong after all!