Since the successful coming of acts as LINKIN’ PARK, SLIPKNOT and SYSTEM OF A DAWN - that in reality were just giving sequence to what PRONG, SEPULTURA, PANTERA, MINISTRY and some others created on the 90s - many other bands came and created different paths to what is known by many as Modern Metal tendencies. And the North American quartet TETRARCH inherits all this load, as heard on “The Ugly Side of Me”. The hands of Dave Otero were chosen to take care as producer, and he took over of the recording, mixing and mastering as well - with Mike Low making the additional sound engineering. It’s obvious that the sonority is greasy and abrasive as bands from modern tendencies use, here improving the weight, but always defined and understandable.

The artwork was created by Kevin Moore (not the former DREAM THEATER keyboardist), what adds a darkened touch to the album. The quartet works on an abrasive and modern mix between New Metal and Metalcore influences, filled with intense Groove Metal parts and nasty feeling, but plenty of accessible melodic parts. It’s obvious that many older fans will say that ‘this is music for teenagers’ (as they do for the past 30 years), but’s charming and truly seductive, heavy and aggressive, and filled with an amazing energy that’s hard to resist to, and layers of emotions can be felt as the songs play. If you’re just looking for good music without caring for labels, you really will find a good time with this release.

“Anything Like Myself” (excellent rhythmic work from bass guitar and drums, entwined by Rapcore elements and effects), “Never Again (Parasite)” (a bit more driven by melancholy, with good vocals), “Live Not Fantasize” (wow, what amazing energy and melodies), “Erase”, “The Only Thing I’ve Got” (a fine crossing between abrasive ambiences with accessible melodies that would be a radio hit), “Best of Luck”, “Crawl”, “Cold” (again the crossing between a charming melodic chorus with intense energy is heard here) , “Headspace” and “The Ugly Side of Me” form a set of excellent songs, each one being a potential hit for fans of Modern Metal tendencies.

For fans of Modern Metal tendencies, “The Ugly Side of Me” is here for you. For the complainers, TETRARCH is here to stay.