ON A PALE HORSE

Combining elements of various NOLA sludge and extreme metal bands with Black Sabbath, Pantera, Trouble and Corrosion Of Conformity, On A Pale Horse is a dark ride into soul of some serious rock and blues while paying homage to Native American ideals.

The self-titled release by On A Pale Horse is a disc that oozes 70's guitar blood and sweat with the addition of 00's extreme elements in well-placed moments as opposed to over-running the material. "King Brimstone" opens with an ominous vocal passage before evolving into one gruesome trip down through the depths of some sinister swamp. What is surprising however is that the band is not from the deep South rather Des Moines, Iowa, the home state of endless corn fields and Slipknot (whom guitarist Josh Brainard was once a member).

The work ethic of this material could very well parallel that of the industry the state is known for in farming. It is apparent much toil and ignorance of modern trends have a great deal of credo with On A Pale Horse.

“No Eagle Lies in Potters Field” is an intense semi-instrumental piece that features some a slow-brewing beginning then driving into some punishing riffs. Warren Riker (Down, NOLA, Cathedral) produced the CD and the meeting of the parties involved seems to have clicked on all cylinders. On A Pale Horse comes across as the band you would not want to have open for your own band unless you were on top of your game everynight.

The best atmosphere to witness this band is obvious; dark, hazy and hot. Fans of bands that actually care to create their own vibe and play the guitar on their own terms are encouraged to check out this release.