Lunatic's Serenade
HMS Music Spotlight
Most metal fans out there are, at least somewhat, familiar with Psychobilly music. And while the two may not sound like they go hand in hand, they are not total strangers either. They’re in the same family tree; maybe not siblings, but definitely close cousins. Fact is, although Psychobilly looks like it fits better with punk, the lesser known subgenre and metal are tight. I’ve seen The Reverend Horton Heat tour with Motorhead and I’ve seen The Necromantix tour with Rob Zombie.
Sure, back in the day punk fans and metal fans were not allowed to co-mingle, which was just stupid. They’re both rebellious, raw and authentic genres that have always been anti-establishment and voices for disenchanted youth. I mean, really, it’s 2016 and if you listen to one and not the other, grow up and try expanding your horizons.
So where does Psychobilly fit in? In my opinion, right down the middle. Sound wise, it definitely leans more towards punk, but lyrically, while punk is often times political, one thing that Psychobilly has in common with metal, is the themes of horror. And this being HORROR METAL SOUNDS, you can see why this review belongs on this site.
While metal usually uses a more serious tone when it comes to its horror themes, Psychobilly attacks it from a fun, pulp, grindhouse angle. And for this review we are taking a look at the Austrian Psychobilly-punk rock group, Kitty In A Casket. Their newest album “Kiss & Hell” comes out on February 26th 2016.
Kitty In A Casket
Kiss & Hell
(Rodeostar Entertainment GmbH)
Written by: Ryan M. Andrews
7 out of 10
Led by vocalist Kitty Casket, she is suspected of being a seductive Aphrodite or a man-eating vamp and one listen to her sweet yet mischievous voice confirms both to be true. But look past her pin up sex appeal because under the surface of this playful Goddess is strong vocal chops and a range that fits this style of music perfectly. While ‘Sticks & Stones’ shows off her typical innocent and playful voice, the German sung ‘Feuer & Els’ provides listeners with an edgier and more aggressive side. Regardless of her approach, each song is mixed with the fun, upbeat musicianship of Billy The Bat, Tom Mooner, Todd Flash and Max van Angst to create an addictive 13-track album.
The juxtaposition of upbeat songs with devious lyrics creates the perfect Psychobilly album. While not as on the nose with the horror elements as their previous efforts, this band that is ‘Straight Outta Kreepsville 666’ has definitely matured and expanded their writing style.
This may not appeal to a lot of the metal heads out there, but I don’t think they care. They know what they’re doing and what they do, they do well. This album is polished and it shows growth within the band’s sound and style. If you want to party Psychobilly style, this is worth getting.
7 out of 10. Album highlights: “Bloodlust”, “Feuer & Els.”
Ryan M. Andrews, HMS
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