Source: Album Artwork
American rock duo ’68 are back with their new album Two Parts Viper and it’s their best work to date. Together, vocalist Josh Scogin (prior member of Norma Jean and The Chariot) and Michael McClellan manage to create more noise than a live band. Two Parts Viper’s vicious twists and turns put you through a wild rollercoaster of emotions and sounds.
Scogin’s vocals creep into opening track ‘Eventually We All Win’. After building suspense, they give way to a frantic thrash/grunge riff with a wild guitar tone. The harsh riffs complement Scogin’s abrasive vocals and the two work seamlessly together. ‘Whether Terrified or Unafraid’ follows and demonstrates a more abrasive side to Scogin’s vocals. The distorted vocals alongside McClellan’s frenzied drums create a chaotic track.
The chemistry between McLellan and Scogin in ‘This Life Is Old, New, Borrowed and Blue’ is infectious and its strongest yet. There are echoes of bands like Rage Against the Machine woven into the main guitar riff. The sharp coordination of drums, guitars, and vocals allow them to move together in unison together and sound all the more formidable.
‘No Apologies’ is the strongest song on the album, it’s full of twists and turns. As you’re listening, there’s no way of predicting which direction the track is going to jump to next. There’s an abrupt break in the middle filled with Scogin’s muddled musings, “are you my killer or are you my lover? Please make yourself known, our shadows are only getting longer”. The memorable introductory riff repeats itself sporadically throughout and keeps you hooked.
Closing track ‘What More Can I Say’ begins with a slower pace, much like earlier track ‘Without Any Words (Only Crying and Laughter)’. Scogin’s vocals command attention throughout, his impassioned yells build towards the end and are unrivaled by the vocals in any other track. It’s a great way to end the album.
Two Parts Viper’s unexpected twists are what keep you hooked. ’68 move from strength to strength as the album progresses and their chemistry as a duo allows this to happen. As a listener, Two Parts Viper puts you in a state of constant discovery and awe. Their use of various styles and sounds keeps you on your toes, entertains and provokes thought. ’68 are undoubtedly a band whose music you need to make sure you hear live.
