theAZTC – BASSHEAD
BASSHEAD truly owns its name. The album, released on November 25th, 2021, is a bass-heavy shot of adrenaline right to the veins.
The album opens with Freddie Gage on FREDDIE; an overly distorted, yet simple industrial trap suite. The song is overtly political, yet sonically quite plain; especially for its 10-minute run time. Samples of Gage are used throughout the entire album; one wonders why theAZTC didn’t name the album after him.
Impressively, the atmosphere works quite well on BLUE HAIRED GIRL, CIRCUS, ALL MY FRIENDS, WHITE FANG and especially during the second half of HELL. Furthermore, WHITE FANG is the biggest surprise, with its delirious, gritty bassline. The chainsaw-like guitar that rips through the end is gorgeous. If only the remaining album was as creative. Lastly, 316 opens with an engaging section of guitars, which leads beautifully into the following industrial, sludgy soundscape. Moments like these are memorable, though are sadly spread apart.
Unfortunately, the production is less-than-spectacular. The album excessively clips and can sound unpleasant at times. This almost seems intentional, though the same atmosphere could have been achieved with less technical errors. The album sounds like it was trying to make a statement more than anything, though it’s hard to imagine Christians listening to something the opposite of wholesome.
While the sound design is complex, and thoroughly engrossing, the compositions are repetitive and simple. theAZTC has the right idea, though it’s evident he’s still in his early days. With a little more complexion, his next release could be great. Here’s hoping he takes the steps needed between now and then. Regardless; BASSHEAD may not be unique, but it’s undeniably enjoyable.
Average
Listen to it here:
theAZTC – BASSHEAD
