Son of Man “s/t” 7”

This four-song, self-titled EP (released by Good Times Records) is the debut outing from Los Angeles, CA's Son of Man. As insinuated by the Dwid Hellion-contributed cover art, the band's approach is indeed influenced by Integrity and other such comparable acts, but they're definitely taking things in different directions musically. True, the songwriting style is largely dominated by a metallic hardcore type of format driven by crunchy power chords and gruff vocals, but there are a number of riffs that unexpectedly head towards the cold, crawling dissonance of the Norwegian black metal aesthetic (as well as some H8000-esque death metal runs for additional flare). The crispness of the guitar tone may be attempting to move in that "Norwegian" direction as well, but I think the band's approach would achieve more impact with a well-balanced recording. The production values are the key factor that can tend to obscure some of the band's potential here. The bass sounds fucking great, and there's definitely something to be said for the strange character of the guitar sound, but if the drums aren't programmed (it seems they're looking for a bassist and a drummer to fill out the lineup) the rigidity of the percussion certainly suggests the possibility. Perhaps it's just a digital kit? Regardless, a warmer and more natural drum sound would definitely work to thicken up some of the gaps left by the guitars, and the vocals could probably use some extra fullness, too. This is just the beginning for Son of Man, though, and the continued growth and experimentation that all bands experience should allow them to strike the right balance between the different influences they're attempting to unify.

Son of Man "Blind Omnipotence"

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Good Times Records