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Glassjaw defies categorization

July 10, 2002

Once in a while, a band comes along set to change how music is perceived.

A painfully passionate and unique band who endures the selfish music industry to create an outlet for themselves and its devoted fans.

Glassjaw never set out to get a record deal, be under strict management, or conquer the world.

Five friends came together to make music on the weekends, but the world came knocking.

This music isn’t for everyone, however. No categorization can be made as to where Glassjaw really fits in the music scene - it just sits there until it latches on to someone, rooting itself deep into their psyche.

At times it can be blistering noise, then, all of a sudden, blissful melodies.

They have been compared to Elvis Costello fronting the Bad Brains or Morrissey singing with Fugazi, and this still doesn’t scratch the surface of what Glassjaw truly is.

All I can say is take a listen and be open-minded, music is expressive and sometimes first impressions never work for anyone, no matter how pleasant they are. But they can grow on you in time.

With its second major label release, the first on its new label, “Worship And Tribute” is set to build a bridge between old and new fans for the post hard-core hybrid.

Its album is again produced by Ross Robinson, the master behind new metal Korn and Limp Bizkit. He is the catalyst who pushes Glassjaw forward to reveal itself through music, to a room of people destined to disagree or not even bother.

Fueled by this carefree, yet viable process, Glassjaw’s efforts flow with moved emotions throughout the album, capturing every highlight and downfall.

Daryl Palumbo’s vocals fluctuate and intertwine with the music. His lyrics can be perceived as a separate member of the band, rather than just a conundrum of words thrown out in hopes they catch on.

Palumbo’s earnest and poetic lyrics are the deep-rooted inner thoughts of an artist at work, painting his visions with words.

Not everything makes sense, but some people will connect with what’s being said if they’re imagination allows them to.

The onslaught of guitars captures its whimsical essence, creating a harmonically distorted and beautifully harsh attitude.

Some tracks open with echo-laden guitar riffs that mesmerize the mind before shattering all concentration with passionate outbursts, as in “Two Tabs Of Mescaline.”

Other tracks rip open with intensity from the get-go, such as the commanding “Tip Your Bartender,” the attractive and bewitching “Pink Roses” and the powerful “Mu Empire.”

Other standout tracks are the mystical journey of the moderate tempo “Trailer Park Jesus,” the elegant “Must Have Run All Day,” the revealing “Ape Dos Mil” and the stormy “Radio Cambodia.”

Don’t forget to catch Glassjaw’s frenzied and dynamic live show this summer with its cult following at Ozzfest and the Warped Tour. Maybe you’ll learn to appreciate them more when you feel the intensity instead of just hearing it.

Go forth and explore, love it or hate it, but don’t disrespect a band who puts everything on the line for its love of music.

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