Totimoshi

After releasing their first two albums with the relatively same vibe, most metal bands dub the third their "experimental” record. Then they hold their breath and wait for the backlash from purist fans who bemoan their heroes changing their sound. The only prerequisite for Totimoshi fans is that they must be open-minded, for this San Francisco trio overhaul their sonic chemistry every album. Last year’s Ladrón saw the most significant shift, as they moved away from their early Melvins inspiration to embrace Neil Young and a bluesier Led Zeppelin. The influences that colour Milagrosa remain variegated, from Black Elk ("The Whisper”) and Rollins Band ("Gnat”), back to Zeppelin ("Little Bee”) and Young ("Forever in Bone”). Sensing that his band need some creative ideas, Helmet founder Page Hamilton not only produces the album but also plays additional guitar on a handful of cuts. The melodic rock of "Sound the Horn” and "Fall and Bound” give way to the heavier "Last Refrain” and "Seeing Eye.” Though lacking Ladrón’s catchiness, Milagrosa will warm the black hearts of Melvins fans still pining for the Stag days of yore.