Electric Red | Live - Auntie Annies, Belfast

After a year’s break the band formerly known as Involution return. It’s obviously given them time to think, assess what kind of music they really want to play, then make the necessary changes. The first of which is of course the name: Electric Red, their new moniker, has clearly been inspired by the guitarist’s favourite lipstick, and bodes well for the future. Just joking.

But the future does look considerably brighter. Right from the start the band took their cues from 90’s alt and metal, meaning that by now, their mix of Tool, Helmet and Prong can be heard mixing with a newfound lashing of Mastodon. Improvements within the band have assisted their ability to make their influences a reality rather than a badge - for example the highly impressive drumming, totally following Brann Dailor’s lead, which is now at a much higher standard than it was a year ago. Work has obviously gone in.

The biggest change of course is in the vocal department. Their longtine bassist has stepped up to the plate, and though a few rough edges need shaved, does a good job. Its certainly more authentic and rougher than what went before, suiting the bands music better. New vocal harmonies in two or three songs are an interesting plus, and should be pursued further. Solos wouldnt go amiss though.

The band are supporting Taint tonight, and it’s apparent that they’re using lower key shows like this to get used to the stage again.  They should sort out their positioning - the vocals should be in the middle, surely - and perhaps look a little less uncomfortable up there. But that’ll be remedied when they’re totally on top of the new brief. As it stands its clear that these songs are work-in-progress, but the tone’s all there, and each member knows exactly how to work his instrument. After that it’s a question of songwriting and push, and so we’ll be watching with interest how this workhorse rock band fare.

-Earl Grey ::: 14/08/08