ALBUM REVIEW: Kein Applaus Für Scheisse – Nuking Crownz
NUKING CROWNZ are a very new band on the scene, having only formed in 2019. They are about to show the industry what they are made of with the upcoming release of their debut studio album Kein Applaus Für Scheisse. This nu-metal four-piece have known each other for over seven years, having worked together on a professional level in various band formations in the past; consequently creating and releasing an EP and two albums independently before officially coming together as NUKING CROWNZ.
Throughout the record, you can clearly distinguish what the subject matter of the album is pretty much right away. The release signifies the mood of the band at the time of production, just as the coronavirus pandemic was about to change everyone’s lives for the next few years. NUKING CROWNZ were eagerly trying to find a way to make them stand out of the crowd as musicians. As a result, they have produced a body of work that is strikingly different and unique. The first track on the release is German Suplex, which instantly sets you up for what’s to come. Surprisingly, some synthesizers merge in with the production, before some fantastic rapped vocals from vocalist Simon Felgenträger really up the ante in the best way possible. This is an incredible song, sounding like a mix of KORN and ELECTRIC CALLBOY. Stadt Land Grenze is heavy from the offset, with the electronic influences creeping their way in again. This track really shows the true impact of Felgenträger‘s powerful vocals. Some memorable guitar riffs make this song something to remember, almost leaning into the hardcore genre at the end of the chorus.
Yoga Fire begins with an addictive, progressive riff which is hard to forget. This follows into the main body of the song, with some trap influences making the track really stand out from the rest. The melody sounds as though it should be a LIMP BIZKIT B-side. However, there is no denying that NUKING CROWNZ have successfully made this song their own. Gold. Öl. Freiheit. contains some pretty nifty guitar picking at the start, with an undeniably angsty and feisty persona evident throughout. This song is so musically varied, which makes it exciting from beginning to end. Hokkaido Babies features an intriguing introduction which definitely leaves you in suspense. By the time we get to the chorus, we are treated to some chant like vocals which grab your attention immediately. Mangelware features some seriously heavy riffs which well and truly keep you on your toes throughout. This song also sees the return of the synth style sounds from earlier in the album, which are more than welcome.
Ohne Feigenblatt is a much more sombre song, investigating more of a darker, emotional theme than other tracks on this record, whereas Alles Ende draws us right back in with another fast-paced nu-metal banger. Ambrosia features an Oriental-inspired melody at the beginning before jumping in with their usual sound. This is probably one of the best songs on the album by far.
Wer Zuerst Wegguckt contains some haunting sound effects, with a spoken word segment which makes the track unique. This is another song that progresses well, starting off slow before some heavier instrumentals are heard in the chorus. Matthias Wiercinski‘s guitar solo at the end is just so impressive. The instrumentals within the chorus of Krone Der Schöpfung are so infectious, making you want to head bang with every note. More chanting vocals throughout make the song even more memorable. Der Hund follows in a similar vein, with some really addictive guitar riffs that are just fantastic. The last track is Spielverderber, which is a little underwhelming as a closer to be honest. There isn’t a lot of progression in comparison to other songs and it isn’t overly recognisable.
It is very obvious that this is only the first body of work from NUKING CROWNZ. Whilst they have a clear sense of direction musically, eventually the sound wears a little thin. Undoubtedly this works for them, but after a while it feels like a lot of the songs blend into one. It would be amazing to hear a little more experimentation in the next record for sure.
Rating: 6/10
Kein Applaus Für Scheisse is set for release on September 16th via self-release.
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