JAAW – Supercluster
Release Date: 26th May 2023
Label: Svart Records
Bandcamp
Genre: Post Industrial Metal
FFO: Ministry, Godflesh, Killing Joke, Celtic Frost.
Review By: Paul Cairney
So, I received the usual list of albums in for review and, whilst in the process of listening to singles from each album to make my selection (a wee insight into the inner workings of Metal Epidemic), I received a 2nd message from the Bossman advising that the debut album from JAAW involved Andy Cairns, he of Therapy? fame. This immediately piqued my interest, and so I fired into listening to Supercluster for the first time that afternoon.
The very first thing to point out is that this is not a Therapy? album, and although there are hints of very early Therapy? that leaks into the 8-track album, this is more akin to the industrial genre, reeking of an underground joy and goodness that only metal albums can give.
JAAW are essentially an ‘underground’ supergroup, made up by the aforementioned Cairns as well as Jason Stöll (KLÄMP/Sex Swing/Twin Sister), Wayne Adams (Death Pedals/Big Lad/Petbrick) and Adam Betts (Three Trapped Tigers/Goldie/Squarepusher). Crucially, each member of the band brings something to the party. Betts and Stöll helped shape the sound of the band, where co-vocalists Cairns and Adams wrote horror themed lyrics. This cooperation has allowed Supercluster to be an album that stands on its own 2 feet, ultimately leading to a really enjoyable listening experience.
Opening track, ‘Thoughts and Prayers (Mean Nothing)’, romps through its distorted riffs and aggressive bass, leading to a sense of optimism that Supercluster might be the real deal. This optimism is the rammed home with the 1-2 punch of ‘Reality Crash’ and ‘Rot’, with the former hammering home the industrial theme with its underlying Ministry vibe.
And so it then continues, with JAAW dropping tracks oozing with influences from incredibly respected bands. You will hear Godflesh, Killing Joke (especially in the excellent ‘Total Protonic Reversal’) as well as Ministry. You are also hit with a few inspired song titles, ‘Bring Home the Motherlode, Barry’, is a personal favourite, and is arguably the best track on the album.
At only 38 minutes long, JAAW don’t hang about for long, but they leave an impression that lingers like a memory you want to last. Fortunately, the repeat button will be at hand.
(4 / 5)
