Icecross - Self Titled (1973)

Out of Iceland at the beginning of the 70's, Icecross shows us that you cant find nuggets anywhere if you dig deep enough. Formed in 1972, the power trio managed to record an album that was released in early 1973 before melting away into obscurity. Not much is known of the band and when they broke up. Even the release date of their sole effort is speculated, but any information i find leads to it being released early 1973.

The cover of the record as seen above was quite ahead of its time, and gives off more of a grindcore or perhaps a black metal vibe. Should you listen to the record, I think you will find that the cover properly represents their sound. Dark, heavy and raw would be the best way to discribe this trio's sound.

Their sound is laid in hard rock but transcends into progressive which adds to a more sinister sound. The dismal opening track "Solution" features eiree vocals that are on the edge of chanting that will satisfy any cult rockers out there. The band then slows it down down for an acoustic break up ballad accompanied with piano showing that they are not one dimentional.

"Jesus Freaks" continues with with the heavy, dark progressive sound proclaiming jesus freaks as "disgusting people". Quite a statement for 1973 to catch on vinyl. "Wandering Around" kicks in and you cant help but move to this more classic style of early rock featuring cowbell... yes, cowbell. The song is definately a mover and shaker for those of you who like to dance.

The track "1999" (do i need to discuss the lyrical content?) quickly departs from the upbeat rock of "Wandering Around" and finding its stride with the opening track with a more chanted vocal line and menacing guitar work. "Nightmare" shows the bands more aggressive style with what could be classified as having a proto hard core punk feel. In fact listening to it brings to mind Black Flag or perhaps even early Saint Vitus.

The break out track or the album is also the last track entitled "The End". I swore to god that if I heard one more song called The End, I would flip out. Well due to its age and the fact that it is just a great song, I give this one a pass. Based on an acoustic guitar, "The End" puts the final touches on the record giving it more of a "Cult" feel.

I only discovered this band yesterday, and I cant stop listening to it. Front to back, I feel this is a solid album with stylistic changes that work. This is an album I dont foresee ever getting bored while listening to it. The production is weak, and the band wasnt exactly tight. I for one would say the record is an acheivement for a first record (and only). Had this band stuck together, I cant imagine what they might have done. A drawback of being from Iceland I guess.

http://www.myspace.com/icecross73