The Demo Review:
Band Name: 3speed Automatic
Demo Title: noMANs lanD
Band Members: Stephan Persaud - Vocals and Bass; Guido Debrichy - Guitar; Willem Stevense - Drums
Location: Holland

Rating: 4 Skulls

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    • Redwolff's Review:
    Usually when a band picks a name based on automotive imagery, they look for something connoting power - I don't know if those crazy people on the next continent all drive putt-putt cars, but a three-speed automatic vehicle is not considered desirable in America, no matter how good the gas mileage it gets, or even if you can park it nose to the curb and not be sticking out in the street. 3SA might as well be powered by a gerbil on an exercise wheel for all the speed the band achieves - this trio from the Netherlands plays slow stoner rock, and while I'm not sure the world needs another stoner rock band, they do what they do very well. I was surprised that the group, according to the promo sheet, had only been together for a year before recording this demo, because they are very tight, evidencing the members' individual talents. The producer, Milan Ciric of Sing Sing Studios, seems to be the man that most bands in Holland go to, and with good reason - this is one of the best productions I have heard on a demo in the five years I've been reviewing for the site.

    3SA incorporate the sound that most of us have heard before from other stoner bands, relying heavily on guitars and crusty vocals, which in this case often lazily circle around the intended key like a drunk bumblebee. Some tracks are fleshed out by what sounds like a Hammond organ, giving a real 70's aura to the song. And while they are not metal per say (the introduction letter greets me as "Rock-enthusiast"), 3SA is not offensive to the metalhead ear as being too soft. Personally I am getting tired of this genre but I have to admit that 3speed Automatic are on top of it; they have supported bands like The Atomic Bitchwax and Five Horse Johnson, well-established stoner bands that I'm sure can afford to be picky about who opens for them. If you are into this scene, definitely check out this band, although for the moment you'll have to cross the water to see them play live.
    4 out of 5

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