Caparza – Self Titled
With their new, self-titled EP, Caparza has unleashed four tracks of unapologetic, no frills rock ‘n’ roll. Seeming to have too much of a sense of humor to be full-fledged metal, they don’t necessarily shy away from the conventions of the genre, either.
All but the drummer contribute to the vocals, and yes, it’s all screaming. The good news, however, is that it doesn’t distract from the crafty songwriting. Bottom line, if “non-singing” is not your thing, you will still be thoroughly rocked by this EP.
The first track, “Helicopters,” may lead you to believe that they’re just another watered down thrash outfit. However, after a dramatic guitar break, they settle into an up tempo groove that doesn’t let go for the rest of the disc. What sets them apart from many of their peers is they are a heavy band that is not afraid of a good melody.
This is fully evident on the second track, “Charles Johnson’s Bronson.” If you’re not rocking out, then something’s wrong with either you or your CD player.
The third song, “Trained by a Samurai,” sees a return to the heavy. However, as is the case with the other tunes, the sophisticated, almost-intricate arrangement keeps you engaged and energized.
Wrapping things up is “Shave It Off and Weigh It”–now that’s even a fun sentence to type. While there are not necessarily any new tricks up the band’s sleeve for the finale, it still keeps with the pleasing aesthetics of the rest of the disc.
As any good EP should do, this one leaves you wanting more. And it may or may not have been intentional, but Carpaza has managed to pull off the feat of having something for every rock ‘n’ roll fan here. There’s a no-nonsense style of songwriting with just enough complexities to keep it interesting. Paired with their combination of melodic savvy and their, um, “spirited” vocal stylings, you’ve got yourself one helluva balanced band.
At first listen, dissenters might say that Carpaza is one dimensional. If that’s so, then it’s the only dimension you’ll need.
Self-Released
myspace.com/caparza
