Weird band name, weird demo title, and crappy packaging (the CD-R has no real packaging, there's a red, white, and black text design on the face of the disc, which is housed in a white paper sleeve with the tracklist attached to the back - pretty boring, and something that does basically nothing to grab attention) had me expecting the worst, but this isn't so bad. It's angular and semi abrasive indie rock with some post-hardcore dissonance and melody thrown into the mix. Expect guitars that bounce back and forth from jangly, slightly dirty "clean" tones to warm, fuzzy distortion, a strong rhythm section, dry vocals that rest right on the line between singing and shouting, etc. "Mazola Man" lets the bass move around more and is a little bit more straightforward both musically and vocally, and "Frightened/Numb" is the longest track - opening up the diversity with some darker passages and softer areas where the guitars are palm-muted and lightly picked to contrast the bright, open chords used elsewhere. The singing also feels a bit more emphasized here, making it my favorite track overall, as it hits on all of the band's approaches in a more cohesive and forceful composition. I like the dryness of the recording, but I think the vocals are often mixed too loud, and the bass, while nicely defined, isn't thick enough to add density to the center of the mix. The drums could use a bit more low-end smoothness as well, but for a demo this does sound pretty damn good in the end. It doesn't need much work. Pound for pound this is a cool demo. Not something that'll bowl you over, but something that piques interest. "Frightened/Numb" is an excellent song, if they continue in that vein, then sign me up...
[self-released]
Running time - 20:22, Tracks: 5
[Notable tracks: Frightened/Numb]
Motumbo\'s Hospital - http://www.gomoho.com
