THE BULLETMONKS

I never cease to be amazed by the perpetually expanding array of subgenres spawned by inane labelling within the metal scene. Here, according to the back of the promo sleeve, we have "Mosh 'n' Roll" and, at first listen to this debut offering from Germany's The Bullet Monks, it is quite an apt label, inane or otherwise. An efficacious fusion of psychobilly, rock 'n' roll, early 70s blues-metal influences à la Led Zeppelin and the quasi-aggression of Motörhead's up-tempo rock-metal output, the music on 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' is annoyingly infectious. With complete disregard to the metal genre's contemporary trends, The Bullet Monks have created a retro-fusion album that combines elements from the last fifty years of rock's many guises to great effect, albeit I predict with divisive consequences as 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' will no doubt be hated by as many people as those who succumb to its aurally catchy essence. My advice is to down a few beers, turn up your stereo to an unsociably high volume and party hard to The Bulletmonks' exercise in witless retro-rock-fusion escapism for it is perhaps best digested in such a manner. As unpretentious as it gets, 'Weapons of Mass Destruction' is a most welcome release in 2009 as an unadulterated slab of mindless fun. An unusual addition to Napalm's roster, The Bullet Monks debut is undeniably impressive, love it or hate it. Great cover too!

LABEL:

FORMAT:

Napalm Records

Album

WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION

Review by Mark Holmes

RUNNING TIME:

49:54

RELEASE DATE:

30th March 2009

TRACK LISTING

1) No Gain Just Pain
2) My World's A Show
3) Lifestyle Junkie
4) Under The Black Sun
5) I Am
6) Canned Insanity
7) Downtown Is Dead
8) Never Be A Wannabe
9) Hang On Lord
10) We're All Fucked
11) Tentacle
12) No Gain Just Pain (Unplugged)

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

Germany

"An efficacious fusion of psychobilly, rock 'n' roll, early 70s blues-metal influences à la Led Zeppelin and the quasi-aggression of Motörhead's up-tempo rock-metal output..."