CoC : Soulstorm - <demo> : Review

Soulstorm - _<demo>_
by: Adrian Bromley (3 out of 5)

It has been a while since I have heard any new material from Toronto outfit Soulstorm, with the band going into hiatus some years ago and some members filling positions left open in fellow Toronto act Monster Voodoo Machine. But from the ashes of 'defunctness' comes the raging industrial-tinged beast of Soulstorm -- though in different shape and form. While not a big follower of the band, though their _Darkness Visible_ release is a great record chockfull of harrowing riffs and monumental doses of electronic/industrial/metal anarchy, I did however have respect for the band. This band was doing what now seems to be the 'in thing' years ago, using electronic sounds as a tool to spicen up their metallic material. Fast forward to 1998 and we see a much more compact and gentler side to Soulstorm with this 3-song EP. Still heavy on all accounts, just more visibly focused on attaining a strong radiant groove throughout. The new material ("Wreck Your Shit", "Brand New day" and "Sunday") all radiate a similar sound, congruently evolving the Soulstorm machine quite clearly throughout the demo. Strong production pumps this baby up. Nothing here seems lacking -- 'cept maybe record label interest? I'm hoping the band's full release of new material captures what they have here. This may be a three-song demo, but packs a stellar and memorable wallop.

Contact: Soulstorm c/o Nick

(article published 13/4/1998)