Sewer City Radio
Rating: 9
Review by: Jim Harrison
Canadian crossover punk/thrash band Spades GT released their exciting new Album, Sewer City Radio on June 2, 2023 via Books of the Dead Press. Based out of Barrie, Ontario Spades GT brings a perfect combination of a punk sound pushed to the limit with a heavy thrash influence that really creates an original listening experience.
Vocalist J.D Pearce adds a distinctive voice that helps set the momentum with talented musicians Dan Horton guitarist, James Roy Dayley bass, and Tyler Reiner drums that gives this album a “smash to the face“ approach.
All members have extensive backgrounds all hailing from previous bands and projects and if Tyler Reiners last name sounds familiar that’s because he is the son of famed Anvil drummer Robb Reiner.
With eight songs at twenty seven minutes the album starts fast and furious with the song “Hands“. This track is a great opener with pounding drums, cool guitar solos and a thumping base that keeps this song ripping along. I find it has a Motörhead vibe mixed with G.B.H groove. Pearces vocals really kicks this song into action and it definitely has a groove that keeps you humming along.
“Cenobites” has a base line that grabs ahold of you and doesn’t let go. This is one of my two favourite tracks. The drums pound on this and it pushes an anthemic sound that would make this a great live track. “Final Girl”, the bands first video release keeps you engaged as the video plays out following the axe wielding manic making any horror fans day. This song is fast and heavy and is a perfect choice for their video.
Track four “Red” is one of the heaviest songs on the album and is my other favourite. The guitars knock you down for the count and they don’t let up. Title track “Sewer City Radio” has another great base line and the vocals produce more of a darker sound which is really catchy. Again the drums sound so predominant on this and the guitar riffs are cool.
“Succubus” showcases Pearces vocal range creating that punks sound mixed with thrashy musicianship. “Xs” is a fast track that doesn’t give you any chance to come up for air, this is another track that would be cool live.
The last song on the the album “Black on Black” finishes the album off with one last gut punch. This track has a D.R.I feel to it, giving you a cool drumbeat and a catchy chorus that keeps you chanting right to the end.
What I love about this band is the fresh sound, being a thrash and a punk fan this gives you the best of both worlds.
Musically and vocally this is top shelf material and I have watched some of their live performances online and they absolutely kill it.
It’s cool in 2023 to get excited about new music that is so groundbreaking and this checks that box. I recommend Metal heads everywhere to pick this album up and crank it to eleven.
J.D Pearce: Vocals
Dan Horton: Guitar
James Roy Dayley: Bass
Tyler Reiner: Drums