PlanetMosh Keeping it Metal
With underground sludge/stoner metal becoming more in focus over the past few years, two bands that have stood out amongst the wealth of talent are Gurt and Trippy Wicked, so a collaboration seems only natural, right?
Guppy begins with the crushingly heavy Owlmegeddon by Gurt. Groove and balls is what this track boasts and it is an impressive way to open this release. With all the swagger and distortion that sludge has to offer it’s a strong start to proceedings.
This EP as a whole moves like no split I’ve heard in the past, where by one band has the first half and the other has the second. However, Gurt and Trippy Wicked have opted to play every other song and both bands coming together for a cover in the middle; and it works really well, with the closing riff of Owlmeggedon leading into Super Fun Happy Slide.
With opposing styles, some may find this transition from heavy sludge to Sabbath style stoner rock somewhat jarring. But Super Fun Happy Slide (God I hope that’s a Simpsons reference) proves to be a success, as Trippy Wicked keep it distorted and riff heavy for this track.
Revolting Child is a very surprising cover that I don’t want to spoil here, as I was greeted by something that I didn’t quite expect. Classic rock fans may tack umbrage to it, but it’s full of energy and heart-and performed by all member of both bands.
Gurt take the reins once again for the up tempo I Regret Nothing. This is without doubt the heaviest song on the EP, and it lends itself well to the latter part of this release by keeping the energy high and the interest piqued throughout.
With the last track Reign, Trippy Wicked take something of a crossover of Mastodon and Uncle Acid approach (classic sound but heavy as Hell), to bring Guppy to a satisfying and crushing conclusion, that leaves an impression with every listen.
With something for fans of either band, this is a very strong release that sees two great underground bands at their creative peaks. Being able to play off of each other in such an effective way is an impressive feat, with Guppy being a release that both Gurt and Trippy Wicked can be proud of.
Guppy was released 6th May, 2016 via When Planets Collide
Favourite Track: Revolting Child.
Guppy track listing:
Gurt are:
Gareth Kelly – Vocals
Richard Williams – Guitars
Dave Blackmore – Bass
Bill – Drums
Trippy Wicked And The Cosmic Children Of The Knight are:
Dickie King – Bass
Bill – Drums
Pete Holland – Vocals/Guitars
