On their debut album Fractal World, Sons of the Addicted delivers an alternative rock album with a sound you haven’t heard since the mid-90’s. Fractal World is far from a throwback album, but you may recognize the sounds of some of your favorite 90’s alt-rock bands lurking in the background. On this promising debut, Sons of the Addicted brings refreshing songs that recalls the days when rock radio actually mattered.
It’s easy to recognize Sons of the Addicted influences on Fractal World. Fans of the bands that Sons of the Addicted draws from will greatly appreciate the album.
One of the strongest tracks on Fractal World is the opener “Hold Onto Me.” From the pounding bass line and off-kilter guitar riffs that mix with the twangy vocals of Stosch Dembitsky, it’s easy to compare the song to one by Primus. Of course, the screaming keys on the chorus are an element that Sons of the Addicted adds into the familiar Primus-based sound. The track’s great guitar solo adds the perfect element to a song that shares nostalgic and brand new sounds.
Later the crunchy, math-rock riffs of songs like “Cheaters” and “Believe” will appeal to Tool fans. However, Sons of the Addicted has a more accessible sound than Tool. Both songs have the perfect balance of experimentation and sensible rock riffs that will please both music snobs and casual listeners alike.
Fractal World has a surprising set of diverse styles. While some songs are close to metal, Sons of the Addicted can also adopt a lofty, psychedelic sound composed of acoustic riffs. The carefully played melodies of “Because We Chose To Trip” give off a sound similar to 90’s psychedelic rockers Live.
Remarkably, Sons of the Addicted follows “Because We Chose To Trip” with another Primus-sounding song “Heroes of Time.” The track is one of the hardest on the album and shows Sons of the Addicted’s ability to make each song unique.
If you’re looking for impressive guitar playing, the frantic riffs of “Your New Deal” will do the trick. The riffs sound unusual for a rock band, but Sons of the Addicted uses this to their advantage to make the song one of the best on the album.
Fractal World brings back a rock sound you haven’t heard lately with authority. Despite being easily identifiable with other bands, Sons of the Addicted still adds a unique edge to each song that allows them to carve out their own sound.
March 4, 2009
