Here’s an Aussie metal institution that has been through a number of changes/evolutions in sound and style over their decade and a half of existence. These changes have coincided directly with the tenures of their three singers: original vocalist Adam Glynn (who went on to front Five Star Prison Cell) brought a real quirk factor and a slightly more avant-garde approach. They then morphed into more a straight up, groove based metal act with the inclusion of second singer Adam B Metal. Current howler Dan McDougall brought an injection of anger and more or a punk/thrash vibe, and this is where they reside today. And very happily too, by the sounds.
One of the charms of the mighty Bok is that on the surface their music is unrelentingly vicious, ugly and in your face, but there is also an underlying tongue in cheek vibe that is very entertaining. They obviously take the writing and recording of their music very seriously, but they don’t take themselves too seriously, which is very refreshing. Their music is loads of fun, at the same time as being gnarly and angry, and this sets them apart from the thrash pack. It also comes across best in their live performances, where they rein absolutely supreme.
That’s not to say that The End of All you Know isn’t a worthy recording. In fact it’s an absolute ball-tearer. It’s typical latter day Frankenbok, some tracks are a flat knacker, death thrashing fury (first single Dine in Hell for example), others are fatter and more groove based (see Bring the Temple Down). And all are super catchy in their own way.
McDougall attacks some pretty serious and angry topics in his lyrics. He gives his opinions on certain political, religious and social issues in no uncertain terms. Even the cover artwork is a statement about a desire to tear the establishment down and establish a new and more equal order in the world.
Despite this however, the aforementioned sense of fun in the metal remains. You can’t help but crack a smile as you thrash the fuck out to this record. And whilst the musicianship is somewhat primitive by today’s astounding metal standards, the playing is still vibrant and tight as a clenched fist. Especially from drummer Mick Morley, who is an absolute pocket sized dynamo, and a very underrated drummist, even on the Australian scene.
This album isn’t reinventing wheels of any kind. What it is doing is bursting out of your speakers, thrashing you all over the room and putting a big fat cheesy grin on your face. And that’s what music is all about….sometimes.
http://www.frankenbok.com/
