I’ve listened to this album a lot and contemplated a number of different ways of how I may approach writing this review. Initially I thought I’d try and bluff my way through, making it sound like I was some kind of machismo hardcore kid that wanders round in vests and a bandana, preaching to the world about how I know the difference between a beatdown and a breakdown. However, I knew I’d be found out as a fraud because true, passionate hardcore bands are ones I’ve always tended to avoid. It’s a genre of music I’ve struggled to get into. If there’s one good thing about running PT, it enables all of our reviewers to become more open-minded, listening to bands and genres we previously wouldn’t have given a second chance.
Bane, for me, are one of those bands. I’ve heard so much about them but actually heard nothing by them. Because of that, I can’t compare ‘The Note’ to any of the band’s previous records. I tried to swot up and read plenty of older reviews, just so I could get a better grounding of what the band are all about – although all I needed to do was press the play button and turn up my speakers. Bane are a really intense and passionate band with something to say. I don’t want to discredit the band by talking about each song like I know what I’m doing, but this record makes you stand up and take notice. The vocals possibly make this band what they are – so intelligent lyrically, so powerful in delivery.
I’ve read reviews which suggest ‘The Note’ is a little muddy in production, but for me Brian McTernan’s knob-twiddling doesn’t sound too bad. Of course I don’t have the knowledge to compare it to any of their other records, so I’ll leave that to the ‘user reviews’ who will no doubt have their say below. I’m sure many of you will scratch your heads wondering why a novice has had a say on this record, but then I’d like to think I was open-minded and objective enough to pass comment. Bane are impressive; the guitar riffs are solid and punchy, the gang vocals can make the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end. Their power is probably their most impressive aspect, and makes them essential listening if you’re of the hardcore persuasion and are yet to check them out.
Equal Vision
Paul