| I didn't know what ASTPAI stood for at first and while something like "Athletic Summoners of
Tectonic Power Advancing Industry" might sound funny, it wasn't what it stood for. The band in
question instead is from Austria and has sent me their latest (lengthy titled) album, "Corruption
Concealed (Under Deceptive Slogans)" for consideration, so I wanted to check it out so I could maybe
make a more applicable abbreviation.
I was surprised at the quick and robust punk that high jumped out of my speakers when the first song
came on. Rivaling riffs coming from bands like Lagwagon, Against Me!, and Strung Out, ASTPAI keeps
their guitars catchy and intricate (at least as much as punk guitars can be). The flavorful vocals
of Marco have that Austrian spin which mixes with the hardcore shouts/growls, which forms a
succession of punk hardcore that feels like a hot dog in a bun. (Except for the beginning part of
"Paving Ways In Cliché Suits" where the vocals sound like he is choking on a hairball.)
The album's general motif/lyrics/literary atmosphere have the familiar punk/anarchistic/political
theme that gets touched on by more than 80% of the punk bands out today, If you are a fan of that
then you shouldn't have a problem with it and you might think I'm stupid, but it is nice to see
bands like Millencolin and Lagwagon break away from the pack and make music about goofiness, rather
then the majority (ASTPAI).
Besides some complaints, such as vocals that sound like a man has shouted himself to deafness, tired
lyrical base, and a few others, this album is fairly solid. It has engaging riffs that often reach
farther that what the average band plays and to some that is all that matters. For those looking for
a new angle on punk, you won't find it here. You will on the other hand find energized guitars and a
passion for uncovering the deceived truths out there.
~ Pernell
May 20 2008 |
