CoC : earthtone9 - Off Kilter Enhancement : Review

earthtone9 - _Off Kilter Enhancement_
(Copro Records/PHD, 1999)
by: Adrian Bromley (9.5 out of 10)

In a day and age where metal music has been run through the ringer so many times and nothing seems fresh or innovative anymore, it's nice to see bands like Nottingham, England's earthtone9 surface into the picture. I raved about the last record _lo-def(inition) discord_ [CoC #35], and I'm gonna rave about this one too. These guys fuckin' rule. There is no question in my mind that this band has got to be one of the most eccentric and hard sounding ones out there. With shades of Coalesce, VoD and Cave-In bringing up the hardcore front, the waves of adrenaline that earthtone9 disperse to the listener are no doubt inspired by such versatile acts as Neurosis and Tool, but they manage to add their own flavour and groove to the mix. The result? One happening cocktail mix, my dear metal friend. It's an incredible ride to take upon yourself with each listen, as the music of earthtone9 really seems to radiate an ethereal vibe at times, allowing you, the listener, to cautiously sit back and take in the music content of this band, taking into account their breathtaking deliverance and tight musicianship. Get hooked on tracks like "I Naugal Eye" and the stunning work on "Simon Says" and "Grind and Click". I know, I know... I'm babbling on about this band, but this stuff is the shit. This comes highly recommended and easily in my top ten of 1999.

(article published 12/8/1999)

CHATS
15/1/2000	A Bromley	earthtone9: Evolving Their Noise

ALBUMS
12/8/2000	A Bromley	8	earthtone9 - hi-point
19/11/1998	A Bromley	9	Earthtone9 - lo-def(inition) discord