The Demo Review:
Soulscar There are currently 1 Reviews of this Demo.
Average Rating: 4
Band Name: Soulscar
Demo Title: Abandoned
Band Members: Andrew Staehling (guitars, bass, vocals), Chris Warunki (drums, acoustic lead)
Location: Canada
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    • Musashi's Review:
    Despite being from Canada, Soulscar is a really good band. The demo is very intense and heavy. Right away, I get drawn in to the intro track called “SSRI”. The rhythm is heavy with a good guitar melody. If it were not for the really bad edit, the track would flow seemlessly into the second track “Cutter”. Andrew’s vocals are deep and growling. I would say he is as convincing a vocalist as he is a guitarist. The guitar heavy tracks are really what makes this demo for me. The style is reminiscent of Priest and Maiden but with cookie monster vocals. As for the drumming, Chris Warunki is extremely creative, his parts and fills are very exciting. However, the drumming lacks the precision I usually associate with such intense parts. The groove tends to break down during the fastest and thrashiest parts of the CD with fluctuations in tempo and dynamics (i.e. his time is off and the balance between his hands and feet is off). Not to worry, it still sounds really good. In fact, I really only mention it because I’m a dick like that.

    The bio states that they only had 18 hours to record and mix the CD. Considering that, I would say the CD sounds awesome. Judging by the level of playing on this CD, I think some more time in the studio can only help these guys.

    I only have two genuine criticisms of the band. First, get a dedicated bass player. Although the bass parts are technically right on, they really do not add anything. The bass parts merely double the guitar. With a different person playing bass it will probably open up the songs a little more. Second, spend the extra time in the studio. This demo is filled with good rough ideas but could stand another coat or two of polish.
    4 out of 5

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