Extortion are a hardcore/powerviolence band from Perth, Western Australia who have built themselves something of a cult fanbase over the past few years. Operating since 2005 or so, they released their first LP
Degenerate in 2006 and it's follow-up
Sick in 2008, along with a myriad of 7" singles, splits and the EP
Terminal Cancer in 2009.
Loose Screws is the groups 2010 release, and is straight to the point from the get-go. What follows are several tracks which simply do not let up in energy for the entire duration of the release, with a cutting rhythm section fueled by melodic basslines and excellent drumming guitarist Brendan's powerchords always cut through with a healthy intensity. The songwriting is excellent, vocalist Rohan (Extortion do not seem to believe in last names) provides a suitably shouty edge to the playfulness of the music, the band often stopping on a dime and starting up again at will in a manner that is constantly engaging.
It would be futile to analyse the direct nature of the music in detail but
The Pessimist,
Stare At The Sun,
Blindspot,
Kill The Lights and
Faulty Wiring are perhaps the standout tracks here. Closer
Socially Inept is a personal favourite with its repetitive riff and simple rhythmic pattern, highlighting the value of the "less is more" approach i've come to take for granted. If there is anything to flaw, there is little variation throughout. Still, if you were looking for that you wouldn't be listening to powerviolence.
Loose Screws is an excellent 2010 outing for Extortion, it's short, sudden and to the point which is often all one could want with this brand of hardcore. Despite this the whole ordeal feels very well controlled throughout, with a lot of care taken not to fall into the traps this type of music seems to invite with bland songwriting and dull chugging. It's an entertaining, worthwhile listen.
