Graf Orlock

Examination of Violent Cinema Vol. 1

BY Denise FalzonPublished Dec 4, 2018

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L.A.-based cinema-grind aficionados Graf Orlock return with their latest slab of grind-fuelled hardcore, dubbed Examination of Violent Cinema, Vol. 1. The new release follows 2016's ambitious Crime Traveler, which was an original story about a Canadian time-traveling assassin, and sees the band returning to their commentary on modern Hollywood films.
 
The 12-track album tackles movies released in 2017, such as Blade Runner 2049, Brawl in Cell Block 99 and John Wick: Chapter 2, and captures Gorlock's distinct brand of chaotic grind and fierce hardcore, along with their use of perfect, confrontational samples. Examination of Violent Cinema is intense and aggressive throughout, as tracks like "Back in the Ground" and "A Man Named Suicide" contain incessantly harsh riffs and pummelling drums. Even tracks with slower moments and groovier rhythms ("Alternate Route to Mexico" and "Five Stars General") have an overarching gnarly tone and violent atmosphere.
 
In true Gorlock style, the record also features thoroughly creative (albeit disgusting) album packaging, which in this case depicts an autopsied corpse, to match the hostility within its themes. (The album comes packaged in a body bag that hides the cover art.) Examination of Violent Cinema is yet another completely unique offering from the band and exudes all of the dry humour and DIY aesthetic that they have become known for over the past 15 years.
(Vitriol)

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