WOJCZECH
Sedimente
SelfmadegodTrack listing:
01. Krebskult
02. Superparadigma
03. Wachkoma
04. Graufilter
05. Holzklasse
06. Macht Der Beseelten
07. Kein Gesicht
08. Dogmafalle
09. Tunnel
10. Redeschleife
11. Letzer Ausgang Opferrolle/Reste Der Vergangenheit
Here is an example of a band that understands how to take a grindcore and crust punk foundation and not only create interesting arrangements, but also deftly weave in elements of death metal and old school hardcore. "Sedimente" by Germany's WOJCZECH demonstrates how a band can stay true to its filthy, repugnantly anti-social musical ways and still craft a memorable piece of musical violence. I have no doubt that 10 years of practice and a truckload of vinyl releases and splits contributed to the honing of its nihilistic craft. The band formed in 1995, yet "Sedimente" marks its first full-length release! And don't fret over all those German song titles and lyrics; if you're a fan, you'll enjoy it just the same.
If I had to be more specific, I would tell you that "Sedimente" is a crust punk album at heart that is predisposed to ragged blasts of grindcore. The growls and screams (and lots of shouting) are nothing that you wouldn't hear from any number of quality grindcore releases, though that does not mean that the delivery is somehow passionless (on the contrary). Make your way through 11 tightly performed, adrenaline-charged tracks and you will hear the sounds of DISCHARGE (big surprise, right?),BRUTAL TRUTH, and MISERY, as well as the crust-caked battery of countrymen ACCION MUTANTE, not to mention any number of groups on a crust/grind label like Crimes Against Humanity. There is no dearth of speed and atrocity here, yet there are more than enough moments of almost catchy grooves — "Superparadigma" and "Tunnel", for instance — to keep your interest. The guitar work features a wider array of textures and colors than you might expect, while the sound mix is a skillful balance of grit and clarity. Just listen to those dirty bass lines and roughhewn riffs.
I am not saying that "Sedimente" is some kind of boundary-pushing heavyweight that will change the face of crust punk and grindcore as we know it. I'm just saying that it is a friggin' swift boot to the balls and an entertaining listen. Props to Selfmadegod for another fine release.