This Machine Runs on Empty
BLOODJINN is releasing
This Machine Runs On Empty on March 6, this Tuesday, through Pluto Recordings. It is an extremely punishing record and I expect it to win over fans of both metal and hardcore – but I wouldn’t call it metalcore in the same vein as bands like God Forbid. Bloodjinn should be considered Hardcore influenced Death Metal and they did it better than anyone else on This Machine Runs on Empty.
Very polished, intricate axe work paired with very harsh vocals make for a great combo. You will hear a rapid change in vocals during most songs, going from a hardcore scream to a death grunt in mid sentence, much like what you hear from HEAVEN SHALL BURN. My favorite songs from This Machine Runs on Empty were “Break the Silence,” “Inhale Exhale,” and the title track “This Machine Runs on Empty”.
I prefer the instruments to the vocals on this record. The death grunts that Joel Collins does are spectacular though. He should stick to those and leave behind the CONVERGE-esque vocals. I’m not a fan of Hardcore – at all – so I’m not going to say that the album is flawless but it is pretty damn good. The thing about this record is that it sticks in your brain. It is very catchy, almost as catchy as stuff on Top 40 radio. Not to take away from the brutality with that remark, This Machine Runs On Empty would never be heard on mainstream radio. It shredding that takes place will get you hooked in though.
Overall, Bloodjinn’s new disc sounds pretty good. I had never heard of the band before so I wasn’t expecting a lot from them but I really like This Machine Runs on Empty. If you are a fan of the vocal stylings Heaven Shall Burn or Converge, I would recommend this album to you. Otherwise, check it out for the drumming and guitar work. These guys play really well together.
