hERETICS iN tHE lAB - EXIT

The one thing that I love about the goth and industrial scene are the musicians ability to seamlessly blend one million different genres into one. Whether it's dubstep, neoclassical, reggae, or even rap, no genre is forbidden or taboo to these fine experimental folks. I think it's safe to say that Norfolk, Virginia based industrial metal outfit hERETICS iN tHE lAB is able to boast they can genre mash and blend sounds together. Sounding like a crossbreed of Manson-esque vocals along with Ministry's dirty industrial/thrash musical showcasing, hERETICS iN tHE lAB's EXIT is an album that will be taken in by the electronic loving crowd as well as the fine fans of harsher metal genres. 


For example, after the obligatory opening track that is 'Death', 'Atrocity' comes in and plays with punk/rockabilly elements with all-around dirty feedback sludge. However, for fans of more electronic movements, hERETICS has come prepared with songs such as 'Forever', where layers upon layers of loud and positively eerie synths and guitar culminate. 'Sorry' was another amazing bout where the sound in general was overall soothing and quiet - at least in comparison to what's already been shown. Piano work (which I'm a sucker for), wicked electronic lines, and a song that devolves from anger to emotion make the track a winner. 

However, out of all the tracks on the album, 'Rise' was my absolute favorite. It's an atmospheric song that focuses on acoustic guitar, but not the type you would find in a Western or a fuckstick of an indie rock band. This almost sounds like a track that would play at the end of a horror movie as the credits roll. The ending ambiance also makes me feel like that. 


Lead vocalist Thomas Morgan should also find something to proud of; his voice is rather strong and stellar. Whether he's going along with the fast paced, thrashy side of hERETICS, or performing on a calmer song, he's always able to keep up. I've heard these guys put on a stellar live show, and it's one that I would totally get to one of these days. 

The only minor complaint I have about hERETICS iN tHE lAB is their quality. Yes, I know they're going for a more gritty sound, but it doesn't have to be AS muddy as it currently is. I think if they slightly cleaned up their sound, hERETICS would sound much, much better than they currently do.

Other than that, however, these guys got it rocking. No more words. No more review. hERETICS iN tHE lAB is a band you might want to keep your eyes on. 
Mar 29 2016