[9/10]
‘Wings of Feather and Wax’ is the first musical offering by metal outfit Killer Be Killed. The term super-group is often bandied about, however they are truly a SUPER-group. The band consists of Max Cavalera – one of the most iconic people in metal in the last 20 years; Greg Puciato – vocalist of Dillinger Escape Plan and one of the most insane performers of all time; Troy Sanders -bassist of the incredibly powerful Mastodon; and David Ellitch – the ridiculously talented drummer of Mars Volta fame.
This song shows the band blending the various hardcore and trash styles of the members of the band. The fast pace of the rhythm section combined with the shredding of Cavalera really brings a metal edge to the opening verse and chorus, while the clean vocals of Puciato show just how varied his range is. The second verse is slightly heavier, with the introduction of a screaming part really adding another dimension to the song. One of the biggest things about the single is just how catchy the chorus is, it has this incredible hard rock style that is frequently attempted by lesser bands and seldom done well.
Around the 2-minute mark of the song, it becomes obvious why this is a super-group. The song effortlessly evolves from a kickass hard rock song into a metal song that will no doubt that incite many a mosh pit with its brutally heavy breakdown. This leads into a face-melting solo from Cavalera, who ably demonstrates why he is considered one of the best metal guitarists of his generation. The influence of bands like Mastodon and The Mars Volta are obvious throughout the track, with the song constantly progressing and no two choruses sounding identical.
Overall this is a thoroughly enjoyable song that has left me eager to hear their future offerings. The album is out in May and if it is as good as the single, it should not be missed.
Sam Taylor
