New Jersey’s quintet Toothgrinder is ready to entertain and surprise the audience experimenting with multiple music styles ranging from jazz to straightforward metal on the newest record entitled “Phantom Amour”.
With a mix of super crunchy guitar riffs and modern electro layers “HVY” opens the album favoring a heavy approach that will recur throughout the song yet the band proceeds to deliver a more radio friendly melodic blend as the guitar sound acquires polished tonalities enhanced by soothing vocal delivery.
On “The Shadow” the band’s hardcore influences become palpable with a series of fierce guitar riffs and screams yet the smooth breakdown evokes ethereal melodic soundscapes with alt-rock flavors.
“Let It Ride” ensures pure catchiness with the refreshing chorus surrounded by classic rock vibes as well as danceable moments with more modern electro layers bearing hints of radio friendly pop.
The title track sounds definitely catchy with a generous dose of guitar driven grooves that often give way to softer crispy harmonies but don’t refrain from offering more gritty metal rhythmic patterns and furious screams.
“Jubilee” is the must-have romantic ballad stripped down to minimalist acoustic harmonies and mellow vocals but packs a final surprise with the addition of banjo.
“Pietà” drastically changes scenario as hardcore elements take a lead role in the mix with intensely angered screams and massive raw guitar riffs following a faster rhythm that leads to a compelling eclectic guitar solo.
“Vagabond” offers abundant sonic clarity with luminous atmospheric textures but doesn’t refrain from adding a more metal approach with tight guitar riffs, chunky bass lines and venomous screams yet still maintains a catchy melodic core.
With “Phantom Amour” Toothgrinder chooses to take a more melodic route communicating genuine emotions through music & lyrics and also showcases an authentic desire to explore further music territories.