Apartment 26 kicks things off with a progressively lively intro that hops its way along to
an undeniably catchy swing pattern while still sounding heavy. They easily work their way
into a hardcore groove and seamlessly shift between styles. Overall the first song is
impressively intricate in nature. It's entitled "Give Me More". Track 2,
"88", is heavier with some very cool keyboard work.
The vocals of Terence "Biff" Butler (son of the late Geezer Butler of Black
Sabbath fame) are rich, full, expressed, and artistically arranged. His words are clear
and annunciated in a manner of conviction. The entire band is incredibly tight and every
instrument has obviously great talent behind it (especially considering the range in which
each instrument is utilized).
Maintaining the balance of flow, Apt. 26 has faster, slower, heavier, and softer
arrangements in both the order of tracks and the phrases of the individual songs. Music
for the Massive is not quite a perfect album, but it is astoundingly original. The
level of song writing here is quite high.
Andy Huckvale's innovative use of keyboards and samples adds a unique layer of dynamic
expression highlighting many points throughout the album, yet it never clambers above the
band or dominates the mix. In some parts, the keys work to convey a feeling of atmosphere.
At other times, they're used as a melodic element with great effectiveness.
With both a marketable image and a marketable sound on a major label like Atlantic,
Apt. 26 seems poised to conquer the ears of the music masses. If they can withstand the
trials tribulations of years on the road and in the studio, the albums that will follow
should be interesting to say the least. Definitely check these guys out.
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