"Intense." It's probably the most fitting word to describe this music. If you couldn't glean that from the band's name or the growing rap sheet left in the wake from their live shows, well…

The Chemistry of Common Life is the latest album from Ontario-based Fucked Up. It's a feedback-drenched post-punk explosion. This music is characterized by walls of howling guitars, hooks that make you want smash something, and the Lemmy-like growl of frontman Pink Eyes. The feedback is so thick at times, so churning and dense, you may actually hear tones and pitches that may not be there. Far out -- I know. Prepare yourself beforehand for this music. The band's name implies what may happen to you.

On this album, the band takes the hardcore, post-punk format and reaches in different directions. The opening track Son The Father takes three distinct sustained tones -- flute, feedback and howl -- then opens up into the frantic ride of great punk rock. Hell, yes.

Black Albino Bones is an airy, sexual commentary about release and escape. The track is brightly melodic while the jackhammering guitars are irresistibly hooky. The instrumental track Looking For God features simplistic, rippling, crackling tones. There’s a lot in this album if you don’t mind your music served excruciatingly loud.

Though it may be a bit of a struggle to understand the lyrics, the ideas behind these songs stand up by themselves amidst the thundering drums and screaming guitar storm. This music isn't just loud for volume's sake. Pink Eyes' throaty lines reveal observation about self-awareness, particularly on Crooked Head : "They're all dogs fighting over the bone / I'm gonna live, I'm gonna leave it alone..."

How do we live in a sane manner as sweaty, undistinguishable faces in a mosh pit, as musicians furiously attacking our instruments, as individuals in an increasingly confusing, crazy and "Fucked Up" world? The Chemistry of Common Life explores these questions and attitudes in a sonic statement that will leave your ears ringing.

Featured Tracks:
Days Of Last
Royal Swan