Pinkish Black

Razed to the Ground (Century Media)

“Ashtray Eyes” begins with a long, menacing, headcase synth loop, the kind of thing that makes your brain dribble through your nose. Daron Beck mumbles some evil incantations, there’s a big blast of distorted bass, and suddenly Pinkish Black has made one of the more resonant metal albums in recent memory without subscribing to any of the traditional tenants. The Fort Worth duo arrives anchored by excellent musicianship, Beck’s voice especially strong. And yet Razed to the Ground is all about mood. Catch the title track, a rattling, intergalactic hymnal, or the seven-minute operatic “Bad Dreamer.” This sophomore effort catches one of Texas’ most promising acts in full bloom. (Thu., May 29, Red 7)

***.5

This article appears in May 23 • 2014.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US