KEVERRA are an LA based trio that came together in 2018 plotting to unleash their version of Sludge on the music world. I say Sludge, as the band dissects things a bit more specifically, labeling their sound as Metal, Post-Punk and Noise Rock. C'mon....that's just Sludge with a helping of Doom, right? Maybe even a touch of Thrash influences? No matter, what ever you want to call it, it's a fascinating project, and one that's original, technical and plenty abrasive. That's always a winning formula. The band's lineup consists of current and former members of -(16)- & BUZZOVEN (Matteo Pinkerton) and GOATSNAKE (Scott Renner), in addition to ambient noise ensemble MAYAN BULL (Kurk Stevens).

The trio set up shop to record their Seeing Red Records debut album with Chicago-based producer and engineer Sanford Parker (MIRRORS FOR PSYCHIC WARFARE, BURIED AT SEA.) and with post production work handled in L.A. with Phil Vera ( DESPISE YOU, TRAPPIST). That's a whole bunch of talent wrapped around this album, and thankfully, and perhaps expectedly, it shows. The band cites influences this way: post "end of history"illuminations, stratification, naked power, existential absurdity, the venerable outlaw artists, wherever found, outrageous fortune, money-violence impermanence. Absolutely. Couldn't agree more. The moment "Albion" kicks off with the percussion staccato morphing from one to many marching boots, you get an idea that shit is about to get real. It does, really fucking fast, and definitely with a fury and hostility. A great album to start your day with.

"Albion" and the remainder of the 10 song, 37 minute sonic assault, marches on purposely, Stevens' vocals seemingly channeling demons most foul. These are songs that delve deeply into the darkness of man, and rather than seeking a way to escape, they make themselves comfortable. There's no place like home. Viciousness and rage are found here, with no forgiveness to be granted. The band utilize some atmospheric transition tracks ( "Incendiare", "Anaesthetic", "Bitter Air of Exile" "Funerary" ) here and there between songs, creating a sense of desolation and hopeless fear that completely enhances the album's sense of purpose, as well as it's intended bleakness and despair. Go to tracks for me, include "Albion"  "Tioga" , but the track I found myself returning to the most was, "Object to be Destroyed". Dizzying time signatures are a specialty throughout the album, but here combined with Stevens' vocal ferocity, they hypnotize and create an almost tribal nature. Still, "No God" might be the best demonstration of melodic heaviness I've heard this year. The musicianship is unparalleled throughout and leaves me wanting to see these songs live.

This isn't just your dad's Sludge, and this isn't an album for the timid. This is a brilliant and imposing album that juxtaposes complexity and simplicity in one hand, and ferocity and subtlety in the other. Sanford Parker's production captures all of it, in an equally bold manner, that never betrays the rawness. It's that balancing act that really sets this one apart. KEVERRA have really impressed with this self-titled release. I do wish there was another track or two, but that seems a selfish lamentation considering all the passions and sophistication KEVERRA intertwined into this art exhibit for the true Heavy Music connoisseur.