The thing about MOTOGRATER that got my attention immediately was... What the hell does their name mean? Well, as it turns out, it is the name sake of an instrument they invented! A 'Motograter' is "a mysterious contraption designed with industrial cable, guitar pieces, and other components, to create a unique, low, distorted bass sound". That's cool! A band that invents their own instruments!!

Forming in 1995, MOTOGRATER have graced the stages of 'Knotfest and 'Ozzfest', and they have toured with the likes of KORN, MARYLIN MANSON and KILLSWITCH ENGAGE. Oh my, what a resume! I feel guilty for not knowing their band name. I have big expectations of this album, especially after reading they are signed to the EMP Label Group. Then, with ruthless efficiency, "Desolation" announces its presence with a quick guitar harmony that bursts into a beefy drum beat that's factory installed with double kickers! The initial platform of instruments provides vocals a great launching point, which explodes in a deep, rasping chesty growl; now that the music firmly has you in the grasp of a shark like bite, you must surrender to the savage journey they are taking you on.

From the more up-tempo introduction titled, "Parasite", the album continues to a more groovy rhythm, but is no less aggressive. The next few tracks "Dorian", "Victim" and "Paragon" can boast very robust displays of heavy musicianship. The vocals expertly manifest from volcanic aggression, to a perfectly soaring clean chorus. The production on this album is really world class; those little moments of whispering vocal overdubs, additional guitar licks, and every other digital neo-enhancement is expertly timed and really extenuates the listening experience. There always seems to be 'something more' with this album, after every song; the next one always seems to have a little splice of something that wasn't there the track before.

In conclusion, I would be remiss in my duties if I didn't highlight that "Desolation", for the most part, had a very early 90's feel, that its clear prowess; maybe too late to get MOTOGRATER better known worldwide. But then again, considering I am noticing that that sound seems to be making a resurgence; it may be just the right time to do exactly that. But at any rate, this is an outstanding collection of songs; well worthy of a purchase. You will not be disappointed.<