EP REVIEW: Survival of The Shittest – GURT
Party sludge. Not a term everyone is familiar with. But to those who know GURT, they’ll attest that this is precisely what you’re in for with this four-piece. Two years on from the very excellent Satan Etc. album, GURT have been enjoying a packed out run of live dates. Earning themselves accolades and an ever-increasing fanbase. It’s clear that not only are the band committed to delivering a memorable live show, they’ve also got a handle on harnessing that live energy and bringing it to a studio release. New EP Survival of The Shittest, while only three tracks long, offers up a glorious snapshot of exactly what GURT are all about.
As a self-confessed band of eclectic taste drawing inspiration from every musical area possible, the lead single, a cover of No Limit is glorious testament to that ethos. The 1993 Eurodance sensation from 2 UNLIMITED is here given a sludge overhaul and reimagined into a twisted fever dream featuring guest vocals Black Mist from hardcore band THE HELL. It retains all of the punchy anthemic energy of the original release, and yet it oozes a brand-new swagger and somehow, it absolutely works. Instantly recognisable yet the variation given to it by GURT has transformed it into something entirely their own and it is nigh impossible not to grin like an idiot for the duration.
While GURT have always been a band that can showcase their humour alongside undeniable talent, they’re also capable of producing pulverising riffs and rhythms with a point. Live Nation, Dead Scene tackles the issue of exorbitant greed pursued by companies pricing fans out of shows. The title track is an attack on the power hungry few, intent on using the world for their own personal gain. Bleak yes and while not an uncommon message to be heard in the realms of heavy music. The driving riff and rhythm in both tracks packs a joyful punch that helps to temper the potential soap box nature of the meaning. The song titles help to inject that level of down-to-earth humour further reducing any preachy qualities. A message, an important one, but done with a hook and grin. That is the balance that GURT have become adept at adopting and is something that has helped cultivate their fanbase. Things can be bloody gloomy; doesn’t mean you can’t smile.
Raucous, rabble rousing, sludgy, and undeniable fun. GURT have crafted an excellent triple punch of an EP. Keeping the recording momentum going as they seek to head back to the studio to work on a new album, yet comfortably adding brand new material to their already excellent live sets. They’ve showcased their ability as musicians well honed to their craft, capable of turning out a biting lyric accompanying a catchy hook, making a statement without sermonising. As well as crucially highlighting the absolute joy that heavy music has at its heart. Survival of The Shittest has a power and weight tightly packed in a sack of sense of humour.
Rating: 8/10
Survival of The Shittiest is set for release on June 5th via When Planets Collide Presents.
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