Review Summary: Trophy Scars two point Black Sabbath
After a couple of Super Snake EPs that were made when Trophy Scars wasn't sorely missed, here comes their first full length album, which is also Jerry Jones' comeback, but he's not alone. Aside from the notable figure that surrounds this album, an important aspect is this piece of art was made entirely in a "haunted" cabin. Those familiar with Trophy Scars will recognize Jerry's trademark Tom Waits vibe through emotional and harsh performances , but this is not a solo act or a Trophy Scars rehash.
Leap Of Love is enrapturing, encapsulating you in grooves and melodies that can harken back past decades with ease, throwing your spirit to past centuries. If Tony Iommi didn't inspire guitarist Pete August then Nickelback isn't hated. The riffs and melodies harken back to the best of Black Sabbath Vol 4 and Sabbath Bloody Sabbath throughout the entire album. If you have seen the Banner in concert you may have seen Pete perform as he is their touring guitarist. Pete's energy shines bright here and while Jerry Jones positively compliments Pete, this album is unmistakably about guitar driven songs no matter what direction Leap Of Love goes in.
And Super Snake does go for the brass ring with twelve songs that total just over an hour. The energy that is brought at times feels like a party that Every Time I Die (or maybe the Damned Things) would go to, but a majority caters to a pothead's Jimi Hendrix guitar ripping bong session. The song "Spirit Cave" strongly resembles the band King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard before breaking down in guttural yelling to end the song. That's the greatest thing about Super Snake though because every song they make reminds you of something awesome while managing to still own a unique badass identity.
The most important thing about Leap Of Love is chemistry. As the album progresses it seems that Jerrys' vocals meld more and more into the instrumentation and there is a cohesion formed that all musicians crave and love. Just as it has become clear Jerry has melded with the guitar he begins to perform with more emotion than he displays on the first half of the album. All this does is add more textures that the bass and guitar take full advantage of with no duds to fuss about.
Trophy Scars fans, welcome to your new favorite album.
Stoner psychedelic rock/doom fans, guitar enthusiasts, say hello to Pete August, your newest favorite guitarist.
It's not that far of a leap for something so easy to love.
