HOURCAST
State of Disgrace
Alkamedia Records 2006
www.hourcast.com

What’s the 4-1-1?
Unsigned Boston hard rockers unleash their debut album.

Genre
Hard rock / metal / alternative / progressive

The Good
Soft piano gives way to chunky riffs on “This Life.” Slight electronic effects accent the background, while Patrick McBride delivers a raw yet melodic vocal. “Sakkara” relies a lot more on effects as the vocals are more haunting and subdued. The chorus focuses a lot on melody. An in-your-face wall of distortion cuts away briefly for the angry vocals of “God Failed.” McBride really shines vocally on the down-tempo track “Lunar.” Echoed vocals, monster riffage, and accenting effects dominate “Smash Up.” “Numb” is a twisted journey into the mind of a tortured soul. All of McBride’s frustration is eventually released. “Stillwater” is more of a straight-up modern rock song with some traces of progressive elements.

The Bad
Nothing notable

The Verdict
Hourcast are like Tool on steroids. Run! Don’t walk to check out this one!

Did You Know?
Hourcast opened up for Sevendust earlier this year.

Rating: out of 5

--George Dionne