RABID BITCH OF THE NORTH – Nothing But A Bitter Taste

Your immediate impression of Rabid Bitch Of The North’s Nothing But A Bitter Taste may be that of vintage NWOBHM.  Think, Neat Records era Raven or the fledgling efforts of Holocaust.  Unfortunately, the band doesn’t have enough well-crafted songs to overcome weak production and average musicianship.

The production delivers each element of the Belfast power trio cleanly.  Vocals, guitar, bass guitar, and drums are clearly discernible throughout each song.  Unfortunately, the drums and bass lack the impact of low-end punch.  The percussion lacks bass as if the kit consists only of a spare snare and a cast off cymbal.  The guitar tone is wonderfully raw but the performance is dull; delivering riffs with mechanical precision and solos with obligation rather than a spontaneous release of tension like the joy of a freshly unleashed animal.  The vocals, while passionate, just don’t have the range and breath support for an emotional delivery.  The result is strained performances such a “God Of Punishment” and “Defending Two Castles”.  The band displays some potential on the lead tracks “The Missionary” and “Chance” but the lack of hooking riffs, unimaginative bridges, and an aversion to anything other than mid-tempo won’t hold a listener’s attention.

While Rabid Bitch Of The North’s Nothing But A Bitter Taste wouldn’t be classified as bitter, it does lack flavor.  The album is an homage to NWOBHM, but lacks the production, musicianship, and songwriting to warrant a spot in any but the most avid Traditional Metal fan’s collection.

TUNE INTO METALEXPRESSRADIO.COM at NOON & MIDNIGHT (EST) / 6:00 & 18:00 (CET) TO HEAR THE BEST TRACKS FROM THIS UPCOMING RELEASE!!!