ENGINE - Superholic

Posted: 11/4/02

Reviewed by: Dirt

Category: Modern Metal / Nu-Metal

Released: 5/21/02

Label URL: www.metalblade.com

Artist URL:

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I guess I will never truly accept anything that Fates Warning alumni put out unless the material sounds like No Exit (1988), Perfect Symmetry (1989)or Parallels (1991). Engine is the side project of vocalist Ray Alder, a band that also includes guitarist Bernie Versailles (ex-Agent Steel), bassist Joey Vera (Armored Saint/Seven Witches), and drummer Pete Parada. For those not in the know, Engine is a modern, nu-metal regime with the standard down-tuned rhythms, static drumming, voice modulation, moody transitions and expected odd noises. Full of downtrodden vocal passages, this is a direction that certainly doesn't test the abilities of the versatile and multi-octave range Alder. But in a previous interview, Alder told us he loves modern heavy music, so the direction of Engine isn't all that surprising. For what it is, Engine is a tight unit, and probably one of the more listenable bands of this style. Alder at least makes an attempt to deliver some melodies and choruses on Superholic, the group's sophomore release. The cover of The Cure's "Fascination Street" is heavied up, becoming one of the strongest tracks on the disc. Others, like "Save Me," just seem to try to be too much like Tool.

The Bloody Truth: Beware, traditionalists, you will definitely be turned off by Engine's modern direction. Only those who are in love with the current scene will embrace this band.