Review Summary: "I look back at the ceiling I'm thinking, how did I get this way"
Sit back and think about your life, are you who and where you want to be? Are you the person you thought you would be at this point in time? Do you love what you do? Or are you at a crossroads? When young we seem to be naive to the world around us and only acknowledge our naivety as childishness or immaturity. However we are subconsciously allowing life to get the better of us and not breaking out of the rut which we have put ourselves in.
Progression; the process of initiating a positive change in your life and moving into a generally more preferable place within. Think of this when taking a look at Coerce, even though they don't receive the ovation they so greatly deserve, they are what I would refer to as Progression epitomised. From lyricism, to production, to musicality; Genome conveys a sense of intensity which does not relent.
"I've built this house I live in"
Coerce has a "do it yourself" ethic that has has excelled them to the forefront of Australian music (as far as musicianship goes). Although the acknowledgement for their efforts is not apparent they are one of the most talented, full of potential acts in the country.
Mike Deslandes, both the engineer for Genome and lead vocalist for the band has done a phenomenal job in producing a sound which compliments Coerce in all aspects of the record. Tonal aspects as far as drums go are one of the stand outs of the record, the rawness and resonant aspect juxtapose with drummer Justin Bond's hard hitting very nicely. The opening track "Flinders Court" is a perfect example of this, commencing with a bass drum and snare beat until a grinding bass tone joins and plays a melody which builds until the guitars and vocals ensue.
Production aside, the vocals on Genome are almost operatic at times, powerfully executed by Deslandes with the occasional gang style vocal chant assisted by the other guitarist and bassist. Karl Roberts the second guitarist also shows much talent in the vocal department especially on the title track "Genome" shouting the first verses once the song kicks in, following the introduction as well as the chorus of the song.
Although there are only four songs which comprise this release it's hard to really complain of it's length, especially with the manner of urgency the songs are executed. Take into account that this may not be the same
band that you may have heard years ago if you've listened to them previously but a rather much more matured Coerce, one that if really pursued could make a large impression on the global music scene.
Now the main to take into account is that regardless of your life and how you're living it, you should strive to live with a sense of autonomy. Live your way and do whatever you can do to make it worth all you've put in to it. Because in the end of the day if you can't enjoy nor acknowledge the beauty within life, you can't be happy within your own skin; Live a little.
