By: Anders

Posted: Sep 26, 2005

The American latino-metal band Ill Nino is now ready with their third album "One Nation Underground". The only album I have heard prior to this, is the band’s debut album "Revolution Revolucion" and I can say that I wasn't too impressed by that effort. Though up to the release of the new labum, the band has slated that this is their heaviest and most varied record to date.

If it is as the above, I might be the wrong to ask, due to me not knowing enough of the past of the band. Though there are some brutal parts, some heavy and relentless thrashing with some quite good and hooking riffing, mixed up in the tribal world of the band. There are many tribal elements on the album, both rhythm patterns and the drumming is very tribal influenced, though the band uses it wise and often makes it flow well. Even though there are moments where it all falls to the ground, and it all seem awkward. Like the acoustic guitar solo in 'This Is War' which totally kills the momentum in that tune and leaves it dead, a shame, because the track is quite good. Other tracks like 'What You Deserve' has really catchy and easy going lyrics and vocals, and I don't think that any are fooled by the sheep in wolfs clothes, it's a simple pop tune, with a bit of heaviness added. A real radio hit, no wonder they choose that as the first single from the album.

The drive is put a lot upon the distinct vocals from Christian Marchado, he alternates between his clean singing, which is kinda raw and often reminiscent of whining and a growled thrashy scream, reminding me a lot of max Cavalera (ex-Sepultura/Soulfly). His voice often catches on, and holds the attention, a thing the music once in a while lacks. The vocal is the wave Ill Nino surfs on.

The compositions are for such alright, some good and catchy song writing, though kind of standardized and wouldn't have been much worth if it wasn't for the latino influences, they are the elements spicing things up a bit. The thrashy parts are draws big time on the work of Sepultura, if you are into the "Roots" era Sepultura, you'll find parts of this album satisfying, even though this isn't as hard hitting and brutal. The band has a scent here and there, they can call their own, though I can't help thinking of this and that band, when listening to the tunes. Ill Nino is for sure not the worst nu-metal band out there, though the quality on this album is a bit too weak to keep the listeners interest caught. The band tries to be more brutal, but fails due to sounding too much like Sepultura, without having the punch that band was known for. If you like your music emotional, very catchy, heavy, with some a bit of neck-gripping thrashing here and there a and tribal elements, then you'll might find what you look for in Ill Nino, though do yourself a favour and listen to the album before you buy, it's not as hard hitting as expected, but still with a good moment here and there. But the target group the band still tries to hit are whiny teenagers, who want to be a bit tougher than their pop-mates, without being too extreme.

Rating: 5½/10

Print