Review Summary: A one-of-a-kind album from an unlikely one-of-a-kind band
In 1999, the Westchester, PA-based CKY (who we all know played the soundtrack to the CKY video series as well) released their first studio album entitled "Volume 1." It was an unrefined album with an unclear idea of what genre this band actually is, but it was also evident that there was some creativity in this bunch.
In 2002, the guys released their second studio release "Infiltrate Destroy Rebuild," is more accessible and consistent than its predecessor. The electronic overtones have been reduced to hear Deron Miller and Chad Ginsburg's air-splitting guitar tones more clearly, and Jess Margera jams on beats that range from hard rock, funk, blues, jazz, and punk. Songs are kept somewhat short, and there are only 10 of them! However, not one track is less than great, and how would one have done it better?
It's almost a complete 180 degree turn from the awkward multitude of directions this group was heading in on their debut. Now they have a direct approach of hitting you with undoubtedly clever guitar riffs the entire way through and never tiring a melody out. All glorious ten of these songs are addicting, and maintain a consistent style that's a mix of Pop, Punk, and Metal. "Escape From Hellview," and "Sporadic Movement" are the heavier tracks that lean more toward metal. The tone of Miller's Parker Nitefly through his octave pedal shreds the very soundwaves his notes play on in these songs. The guys use simple yet infectious melodies with harmonious singing for the poppier songs like "Flesh Into Gear" "Attached At The Hip" and especially "Plastic Plan." "Sink Into The Underground," and "Shock and Terror," both ride on bluesy rhythms with catchy choruses and a badass feel. "Inhuman Creation Station" has a strong "Tool" vibe to it, but in a CKY fashion with fast-pace and marching drums. And "Close Yet Far," the last song is soft, sweet, and fluffier than anything prior to it on the album.
It is no blockbuster album, but for the conscious listener, this record obliterates any perceptions of CKY's damnation to be the soundtrack for Bam Margera's shenanigans. It was apparent on their debut that these guys had potential, but now it's fully fledged and firing on all pistons the way it should. This album takes the initiative to show that CKY has chosen a path out of the bunch at disposal on "Volume 1" and they embrace it so successfully, it's just hard to pull your ears away. There really isn't anything out there like this.
