To this very day, the 70s - or the catalyst era in music - has influenced musicians worldwide. As genres kept evolving and embarking on different paths, many present bands still compose in hopes of recreating the same groove these musicians once had. Shout out to KILLED A FOX who, through an impressive blend of styles, delivered a record of many vibrations and much flow. ''Spring Of Sloth And Haze'', second record of the Croatian act from the mid 00s, charges with sweet and heavy feelings, vibrant, loaded drums and captivating harmonies.

Hitting off with a dizzy, most bounciest riff there could be, KILLED A FOX set feeling and intentions straight out. With spirited melodies and moody vocals, there's a feeling of déjà vu slowly draping the album with a psychedelic veil. Alternative as first label along rock and experimental as close seconds, the energy deriving from every single influence fuels the record into a solid piece of soul. Always intensifying itself with every versatile drum roll taking the song to a heavier state, the clean voice tremolos as seducing as Dax Riggs (ACID BATH) bring a honeyed, soft rock atmosphere. A fatter, lower tone could have also tilt the album into a fascinating direction, but the guys here opted for a crystal clear sound where every instrument is sharp and luminous. Thanks to the bands general concern of quality: with greatly balanced sounds and use of effects, the listener is confronted to an accessible, polished up savor. Frequent rhythm changes from well supported to slow and mellow cast the impression of a worked up and complete record, too.

While it may come off more creative than complex, there still are some interesting challenges in the numerous sections offering plenty variations. The interpretation is on point, as the rockers express a continuous passion from emotion to emotion and prove with brilliance their adaptability by altering the moods, sentiment, reflections and overall ambiance. Some affinities with metal can be observed in the loaded drum­/bass duet or the occasional from­-the-­gut screams, but the silky guitar harmonies, effects and dominant alto (not too far apart from tenor) voice bring back a smooth vibe. Long story short, the music holds many inspirations but some traits hit harder. With a twist in the melody arrangements resembling the ones of grunge gods ALICE IN CHAINS, there also is a genuine and strong 70s mood leaning on the same influences as late 00's MONSTER TRUCK groove rock sensation.

For KILLED A FOX recreate a practically equal 70s atmosphere, there seems to be a general lack of rounder and lower tone MONSTER TRUCK and all those pioneers such as BLACK SABBATH have mastered. However, the tone suits the spirit the band aims for and winds up letting more space to cover for every instruments. Therefore, if some repetition ever occurs, keep in mind the band has a very accessible, sometime radio­-appropriate sound (making these the only modern moments in the album, truly). While some structures will be used and washed up, the formation then contradict themselves with meaner riffs to compensate.

The band here possesses much originality and character: whammy­-bar leads and soothing bass lines underpinned by the heavy bridges and breakdowns prove the ability the quartet has regarding contrasts and blends.

KILLED A FOX deserve more than just a quick listen, as it may first of all sound like non-original, already done songs. Sit yourself comfortably and analyze because, once done, you'll be in for a treat. There are no particular highlights, considering there are no true downhill songs. Every song offers a decent experimental, interesting, from the heart experience. The record comes off as a whole, a groovy record you'll want to spin for every song it holds. Quickly, the quartet will demonstrate they do, in fact, have creative musical minds. I believe if you ever mistake their music for common, it can probably be explained by the pile of influences these guys put together. Want to here a valuable lesson, now? Nuances elevate music, details make the charm. Blending ten different styles makes a record ten times more intriguing. Musicians, take notes.