Having built a devoted fan base for their thrash-oriented metallic attack starting with 2015’s Final Days and cemented with 2019’s 'Eradication', War Curse return in 2023 a more refined animal. In fact, it could be argued that the ten tracks of 'Confession' stand as War Curse’s 'Black Album', having the courage to move beyond what they’re known for to focus on songwriting, groove, dynamics and melody, without compromising on muscle one iota. “We experimented with new sounds, old sounds, took in new influences, old influences, and let the songs come together as organically as possible,” states guitarist Justin Roth. “We threw away quite a few songs that would have been great if they were written for previous albums, but didn’t feel right for where we’re heading. As far as our current direction, the music we consume is all over the map, a lot of it way outside of the metal sphere. I hear bands doing new, interesting things with their music and I want to be able to do the same with mine. If I lose my thrash card for it, oh well, I’ll hand in my battle vest.”
Six months were dedicated to tracking the record, based at Amish Electric Chair Studios in Athens, Ohio, the band self-producing with a lot of helpful input from engineer Neil Tuuri. Despite having essentially complete songs before entering the studio they once again tore them apart and worked on them as they recorded, shedding a full eighteen minutes from the ten tracks, cutting all the fat and making sure each one was a well timed blow to the solar plexus. The band also recorded every song the old fashioned way, full takes, attempting to capture the authenticity of a live performance. What the listener hears is exactly as it was played in the studio. “We used our live guitar rigs. The same amps and cabinets you hear when you see us play live. You’re hearing James’ actual drums. Blaine sang the parts as you’re hearing them. A lot of things are not textbook perfect as a result, but it’s an accurate snapshot of what War Curse sounds like. We’re proud of that.”
The band hope that this record builds them a bigger following, and are willing to put the work in to help make this happen, having a well deserved reputation for being one of the most entertaining, exciting live bands around. Roth is honest when asked what else he would like to achieve with War Curse. “For some dumb reason, it’s very uncool to admit that you’d like to achieve goals in the music industry. Success is viewed as some kind of dirty word. I’ll never understand that mentality. But what the hell, I’d like to play big stages and sell a few records along the way,” he smiles. “More than that, it would be nice to build something that lasts.”
CD jewel case version
Tracklisting:
1. The Nothing (That Is Me)
2. Fortress of Agony
3. Confession
4. Miracle Broker
5. Power of the Powerless
6. The Convoy
7. Return to Dust
8. Sowing Division
9. Rusty Nail
10. Illusion Of Choice
