REVIEW: The Hunger, Cinematic Superthug (Universal)
- Linda Scott
Cinematic Superthug is a crossbreed of industrial and hard rock. Imagine Nine Inch Nails' electronics combined with Metallica's whipsaw hard rock, and you have a good fix on this album. Bringing it to you is a Houston-based band, The Hunger, together since the late 80's. Featuring brothers Jeff and Thomas Wilson on vocals/keyboards, their bandmates are Stephen Boyle (guitars), Brian Albritton (bass), and Max Schuldberg (drums).
When The Hunger started, they played dance music and then evolved into a rock band. They then became an industrial band in a big way but are now doing industrial rock with more rock leanings. Their debut album for Universal was Devil Thumbs A Ride , which produced the top five rock single, "Vanishing Cream". The Hunger toured relentlessly in support of their album and opened for such bands as Sponge, the Toadies and their heroes, Kiss.
While the debut album emphasized the industrial sound, Cinematic Superthug has a richer, melody-driven sound. The tracks are loud and brash but different from the usual industrial noise band. The rock base and meaningful lyrics should increase The Hunger's appeal. Tracks such as "Ray" and "Closer To Me" are good examples of The Hunger's new sound; guitars and effects, thoughtful lyrics and vocal hooks which have an industrial sound but are heavily underpinned with rock's emotions.
Cinematic Superthug is a good choice for fans of industrial and hard rock that are interested in hearing a new sound. Check the band's web site at http://www.thehungeronline.com for tour information as well as band photos and discography.
