Rivalry, The - No Face for the Mentor (Album)
One of the best things about a band like The Rivalry is that they fit into so many categories, and can be added to just about any bill that has a punk, metal or hard rock leaning. Having said this, The Rivalry has called it quits (following their February long tour of Japan and one show in Adelaide in March).
But let’s get on to their release, their debut full length, “No Face For The Mentor”. The album starts with what I initially thought was a little bit too crazy for my tastes, then I read the lyrics “Vomit! Vomit! Daaance!” – ‘Skip to the Clap’ sounds like a Saturday night really… It was still a little bit too death metal for me, but I’m glad I didn’t switch it off; the next track ‘Dead Dog’ is great. It’s got depth and shade and some really ‘metal’ guitars! I don’t know how they play that fast. (Ever since I played Guitar Hero 3 I’ve had a newfound appreciation for guitarists.)
‘A) As the Streets Fill with Blood’ sees the political side of The Rivalry come out to play, lyrically asking “Why are you proud of your nation?” and then telling you to “enjoy masturbation”. Well, they are a band of six boys. The most interesting part about this track is that it has a B. Yep, the last minute or two is actually named ‘B) Only Time Will Help Us Drown’ – it’s innovative and metal and accessible.
The highlight is ‘Shoes of a Landmine’ the discordant guitar is excellent. The duelling vocals are used correctly. This track shows the full potential of the band. I’m pretty disappointed that I never got to see them live.
‘You Are the Filth Brigade’ has gang vocals! Woo! There’s nothing more fulfilling than being able to sing along. Lyrics wise, it’s another one with a very strong political message. I must admit, I’m not used to this. Where are the love songs? Where are the hate songs?
The last three tracks of “No Face For The Mentor” are separated from the rest of the album by ‘----’ which has a grunge rock feel about it. It’s an interesting break in the album, and shows influences that aren’t obviously referenced throughout the rest of the record.
My final opinion? I feel like they’ve split up without thinking about the kids. What about the kids??? ‘Dust’ shows potential for The Rivalry to have had the kind of commercial success like Airbourne, and the rest of the album shows potential for independent success. I’m hoping that the members still pursue music. There’s talent here.
