Review: APE – Survival of the Fittest (2009)
Toronto based APE features a groove based metal that goes beyond regular “groove metal” ala Machine Head or Pantera. Nay, this is much more traditional, this is traditional metal with a groove flare yet without the sex appeal that glam rock/metal had in the 80’s. APE have recently ushered in their second full length Survival of the Fittest, and its an interesting album for one simple reason: it rocks without superfluity.
Survival of the Fittest has the coolness of 80’s metal, but without the ridiculous pop appeal that led to the foundation of glam in metal. This is not Twisted Sister, this is meaningful, groove based metal with strong melodies. I can almost compare it to a less funky version of Living Colour with American classic metal from the likes of WWIII and Savatage.
It’s hard to pinpoint what is good about this album, but I can say that the vocals and guitar work of Everett Mason is really something special, with additionally great drum licks courtesy of Miles Gibbons and some slightly hidden, but nonetheless good bass tracks from Galen Weir. This is a three piece outfit, and each member really does contribute a good amount to the overall success of the band’s sound. If you subtracted any one member from the equation, APE wouldn’t work. It’s clear these guys can write a good tune, but I also think it has to do with a positive working relationship between the musicians which not only helps with longevity, but also with melding the song structure to benefit all the qualities of each member of the band.
Small tidbits could be improved with APE, but the final result of Survival of the Fittest is so refreshing to hear, with tracks that really bring an original, identifiable sound to each, it really makes no sense to point out faults which ultimately mean nothing to a listener’s ultimate enjoyment. This won’t make my year end list only because of the stiff competition, but that shouldn’t detract anyone from checking these guys out for a definite entertaining ride.
VERY GOOD
Top Tracks: It’s Not, Irate Primate
Similar Artists: Living Colour, Faith No More, Savatage
1. It’s All My Fault (This Time)
2. It’s Not
3. Messin’ Around With Love
4. Survival of the Fittest
5. Beyond the Depths of Reality
6. So Lonely
7. Irate Primate
8. How You Left Me
9. Friend Or Foe
10. Barred
Everett Mason – Vocals/Guitar
Galen Weir – Bass
Carlos Aguilera – Drums
Jeremy Kelynhans – Drums on “It’s Not, ” How You Left Me” and “Barred”
Reciew by CODY
