Combining multiple slightly related ideas into a strange new concoction yields varying results within the metal realm. Seattle trio, SPACEWASTER, takes its sophomore venture infusing progressive funk metal into their own wicked brew for their latest album, "Whatever, Forever". Judging a book by its cover, we see creativity and left-field comedy's laborious brainchild on the album art. Don't waste too much effort interpreting this information into a coherent meaningful message, lest you become part of the joke.

SPACEWASTER kick off the party in the title track, "Whatever, Forever", with unassuming guitar cordage giving way to up tempo riffing and entrance of the rhythm section. Bass lines are up in this mix, as they should be for any respectable funk trio, and production is appropriate for the aesthetic that these three just don't give a F**K. All things considered, it's refreshing to hear Meatpie's strong bass play. SPACEWASTER offers grooving funk and progressive combinations throughout the title track, including a soulful guitar solo section and a triumphant crescendo into the album's first thrash beats. This is when the vocals really fall in line and the three lock in. Gang vocals throughout the funk sections transition to a free flowing punk scream session like a cyclone circle pit. A well-laid foundation for the tracks ahead.

There's a unique ebb and flow of style within the opening tracks of this sophomore release. Intricate guitar picking, mixed with thick bass pops and slaps, drive funk laden grooves sandwiching thrash licks. Each prong of the SPACEWASTER attack grooves hard, but the sonic mesh wears thin in the transition. Expect the unexpected in these funky prog metal tracks, and that also includes a few let downs in structuring.

The fourth track, "Astrolabe", initiates the strong second half of the seven-song album in whimsical chord medley instrumental. The final songs on the album take the power trio's talents to the far out realms of creativity. Funk-heavy, "Static on My Blindside", offers more twists and turns and some of the most feeling vocals on the album, as well as the catchiest guitar riff within.

Two lengthy tracks close the album out once again with flare and off the wall styling. Bouncing between raw thrash blasting and punchy progressive riffing finally closing out on bright surfer trilling. "Whatever, Forever" proved to be a fun and effortless listen with a wide range of influences and quality chops. What the album lacks in structure and hooks, the band makes up in pop culture referencing and genre splicing.