Drop Dead, Gorgeous - The Hot N' Heavy
Release Date: June 2, 2009
Record Label: Suretone Records
With two albums securely notched on their belts, the cleverly punctuated Drop Dead, Gorgeous return to form, poised to release their third studio album, and their second with record label Suretone. With the gnashing release The Hot N’ Heavy fastened to their leash, the band is finally ready to set it free.
The searing opening track “Killing A Classic” scars the same way as Underoath do, chaotic guitars dominating the landscape of the track. “Southern Lovin’” sees the band dragging their vulgar riffs through the dust, slamming them through each three-minute fluster with a sense of dirty grace. This chemistry binds the first three tracks together. Lead single “Two Birds, One Stone” heralds a change in pace, Danny Stillman’s demandingly coarse vocal style slowing to a sing. That’s not to say the song loses any heat. A certain ferocity lays behind every song, an undercurrent that forces energy through the most discordant noise.
“(The) Internet Killed The Video Star” oozes with an anthemic post-hardcore glory, Stillman assuring, “you fucked with the wrong son-of-a-bitch.” There’s a unique filthiness to the production value, lending the album a rawness that complements the vocals completely. Tracks like “Can’t Fight Biology” and “Interlude 1” truly demonstrate this; scratchy sound clips and oddly distorted instrumentation give the album an element of absurdity. Vicious rhythm introduces “There’s No Business Like Snow Business,” a song that is a testament to Drop Dead’s ability to paint frantic soundscapes. “We’re Planning, God’s Laughing” signals another change in sound, as the band fleshes out a progressive, six-minute detonation, the album taking its final deep breaths.
With every post-hardcore release, repetition becomes an issue. The Hot N’ Heavy won’t leave any new bite marks, but it sure as hell will open up old post-hardcore scars. Although somewhat generic in its approach, The Hot N’ Heavy is a surprisingly gripping album. There’s enough variation in emotion and tone to stir a change in negative opinions, and you’ll no doubt find yourself enjoying every single second.
Fans that were disappointed by their sophomore release will discover redemption in this album, a degree of maturity finally finding its way into their music. To the future fans still on the fence, drop your prejudices and give the album a chance. In the words of the band itself - “The damn kids won’t believe it”.
hate the song title the internet killed the video star
most kids who listen to them probably think they're real clever and don't realize that they just ripped off a classic song with that title
hate the song title the internet killed the video star
most kids who listen to them probably think they're real clever and don't realize that they just ripped off a classic song with that title
they weren't ripping it off, just giving a nod and paying respect
they weren't ripping it off, just giving a nod and paying respect
they could be doing that
but either way it's kinda of a dumb name in my opinion
video killed the radio star because who wants to listen to music when you can watch it
but how has the internet killed the video star?
don't most kids use the internet to listen to music or watch music videos?, it hasn't offered any new form of musical entrainment that outdoes an old form
just my thoughts
Danny's scream changed in this album, its more Underoathy. In Vogue had a unique scream- maybe it was the way of the producer. Nonetheless, I like this album. Southern Lovin is short and sweet while Dirtier Than You Want To Know is just a good song to listen to.
Still prefer In Vogue though.
Two Birds- is probably my least favorite, DDG/Danny should never be singing like that- They couldn't pull it off like Underoath's Some Will Seek Forgiveness others Escape, or even Agraceful's weaker The Great I Am. Both of which i liked, the former well more than the latter, but both preferred over Two Birds one Stone.
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