Review : EARTHEN GRAVE – “Dismal Times”

Earthen Grave – Dismal Times
self-released … received November 23, 2009

Chicago is known for its doom, and Earthen Grave comes from good breeding: Ron Holzner jammed with Trouble for a decade; guitarist Jason Muxlow double-duties in The Living Fields; and drummer Scott Davidson has run AM 1500 WPJX Rebel Radio for the last 15 years.

The vocals are strong, sounding like Chris Cornell back when he had a set. And in fact, much of the music is gathered from the past one way or another, but in the best ways possible. This is clearly evident in their crown jewel, violinist Rachel Barton Pine, whose deft interplaying and extensive classical background add to the group’s unique character. They expressly nod to British invaders Witchfinder General (“Burning A Sinner”) and Virginian pioneers Pentagram (“Relentless”) on a couple of adapted covers, which benefit from a strong production not heard on the originals.

Displaying a youthful exuberance which belies their average age––also reflective in the lyrical content of all songs present––they must still navigate uncharted territories, while exploring and building their sound. However, EPs this promising portend crushing full lengths….

FCC OK
Try 2, *4*, 5

01. Dismal Times
02. Life Carries On
03. Burning a Sinner (Witchfinder General cover)
04. Death on the High Seas
05. Relentless (Pentagram cover)

Rating: