!!! - Myth Takes - AbsolutePunk.net

Sometimes a brief band history tells a good amount about the group itself. Such proves the case with !!!. Black Liquorice and Popesmashers mixed their respective funk and brash dispositions in 1996 to create the multiple location crew. All things considered, that one short sentence accurately describes the dance-punk sound of !!!.

The opening title track sets the tone for the rest of the album with its persistent beat, hauntingly hollow vocals, and undeniably infectious nature. The relatively patient pace it carries throughout eases the listener into the frenzied party to follow. Such frantic progressions materialize on the ensuing “All My Heroes are Weirdos,” a track matching hyperactive guitar work and drumming with vocals that sound less like true singing than the tone-conscious ramblings of an accuser. Despite his unconventional delivery, front man Nic Offer pulls off rather impressive singing.

In fact, such oddities prove the most endearing charm of chk chk chk. Oftentimes instrumentation sounds awkward when assessed individually but meshes impeccably with surrounding bits. Offer’s shallow whispers slightly frighten and thus intrigue listeners. The unique sound brought to the table not only inspires unconscious toe taps and head bobs, but distinguishes the group from fellow dance-punk standouts.

In fact, the most uniform moments on Myth Takes prove not only less enjoyable than the unpredictable ditties but even at times unbearable. “Sweet Life” comes off a shade too much like a Red Hot Chili Peppers imitation. This compromise in ingenuity instantaneously cheapens the song. Offer’s inability to legitimately sing further exacerbates the issue.

“Yadnus” returns the disc to its original quirkiness, but the poor timing of the aforementioned tune leaves a lasting mark. As the sixth piece on a ten track album it effectively eliminates the surging momentum of !!! during the record’s critical stage. Although an interesting and impressive work throughout, the continuity of the album proves a testing hindrance. Ultimately !!! overcomes the setback, but the overall appeal of the record suffers a significant deal.

The CD leaves a bitter aftertaste in fans’ ears as Nic Offer yet again sings in a traditional fashion as opposed to his remarkably enjoyable yelps and howls. In the waning moments chk chk chk calmly eases into silence. Such a finish somewhat tames the poor final impressions. The variety appropriately wraps up an album of unexpected twists and turns.