Cocobat - Cocobat Crunch (1993)

Cocobat - Cocobat Crunch (1993)

Cocobat have been around for a pretty long time, which is why I find it strange that they're not that well known. Maybe its the goofy name, maybe its because their sound can be compared to the nu-metal craze that came about three years after this very record. Admittedly, they play a pretty weird blend for a hardcore band, particularly a Jap hardcore band. Its funky, its riffy, its groovy, and its hardcore. Whether it's coincidence or influence, there is a definite Pantera-esque quality to the riffs and grooves. Even to this day, funky bass in hardcore is a bit of a 'no-no', and the general groovy nature ain't too 'fresh' either. However, if you're willing to throw away you're reservations about heavy guitars playing funky grooves, you may be in for a treat.

Like the instrumentation, the vocals are a mixed bag. Predominately it's shouting, but the dude can sing, get guttural, and rap. The bass slaps and pops along, having many of its own moments to shine. The bass in general is actually fairly high in the mix, which is nice. The guitars thrash around, playing triplets and frenetic chugs, however, there's some experimentation with funk, and the fast power chord riffs are all present enough for their hardcore cred. The Sabbath influence is pretty big as well, where else could the 'Cry Of Pain' riffs come from? Heavy shit, fo' sho. The drumming is executed brilliantly, absolutely nailing the difficult syncopated riff patterns, along with some inventive fills. The use of double kick is pretty rad, and the general 'playing for the song' nature suits the groovy nature of this record.

I'm pretty sure that what we have here is a re-issue with a few bonus tracks. One remix of 'Guy' and two King Crimson covers, '21st Century Schizoid Man', and 'Starless'. Did I mention that the artwork was done by punk rock legend Pushead? Very cool.

Get it while you can!
http://www91.zippyshare.com/v/1emViKaH/file.html