Album Review: Foot - The Balance Of Nature Shifted
Reviewed by Neil Bolton
It is not only the deserts of The U.S.A. that can produce stoner desert style rock, you already knew that; but Foot are here to compound that thought. This four piece from Melbourne have already released a sell titled album in 2016, and a second named 'Buffalo' in 2018. With 'Balance of Nature Shifted' they hope to expand and build on their sound.
The first track 'Despair on Hope Street' immediately grunges its way into your head; this has a very nighties feel. They have a slight style of Tad or even an early Smashing Pumpkins; they are by no means a direct copy, just a hint, well more than a hint. It works though, the excellent air of slacker guitar rock is a welcome sound. 'E-Sports' carries on in the same manner; with the vocals enforcing the stoner grunge vibe. They have a very relaxed approach to their music, helping you sit back and chill while the tunes play over you. 'Green Embers' begins calm enough, then a massive, MASSIVE doom riff darkens and metals the mood. A clever move for the third track, an idea maybe to show their different styles early in the track count. A nice guitar solos close out the song. And drums lead us into the next.
That groovy riffs appear once again in 'Investment', still well performed with an ear to that 90’s sound. 'Neighbours' has a little surf rock vibe going on transporting you to a hot beach at twilight, accompanied by a cold beer and a hot camp fire. Chilling after a hard day larking around on the ocean. The final two tracks do not remove you from this scenario. 'Manic Progression' has another killer riff that kind of comes out of the blue to shake the mood and your person, surely forcing at least one beach party participant to arm themselves with an air guitar. The slacker groove helps close the album on 'High'.
An album that has pleased me as I was just expecting another attempt to create the majesty of Orange Goblin. Thankfully this is something different from that. Riffs throughout this album keep the head nodding and the listener entertained. If any 90’s rock is embedded in your subconscious 'The Balance of Nature Shifted' will sit well in that place.
Foot release their new album on July 31st via Copper Feast Records
