'Black Hearse Serenade' I.N.C Album Review

I.N.C
‘Black Hearse Serenade’
Label: Ferocious Records
Release Date: 24th October 2014

I.N.C, also known as Indestructible Noise Command, are a five-piece band from Bridgeport. Described as everything from trash metal, to power metal, to heavy metal, they formed in 1985 after Erik Barath and Dennis Gergely decided that they were frustrated by the ‘cookie-cutter bands plastering videos on the sole cable station’. Despite having a previously complicated history, I.N.C are back for good, and ‘Black Hearse Serenade’ is their latest offering to the metal community. 

Opening track ‘Stirring The Flock’ begins with ominous chanting, leading into a ferocious guitar riff. The thrash-orientated guitar playing merges well with Dennis’ angst-filled vocals. The four minute track is filled with groove metal guitar riffs, angry lyrics and a surprisingly catchy chorus. 

‘Cyanide & Whiskey’ is heavy, hard-hitting and harrowing: everything that an impressive metal song should be. The strong riffs and heavy vocals are almost reminiscent of Pantera, but with a modern day twist. 

Despite being a metal vocalist, Dennis is able to display the true extent of his vocal talent on songs such as ‘Organ Grinder’. From harmonic vocals to screaming, he is able to make songs sound exciting and different. 

‘No Turning Back’ is one of the most impressive songs on the entire album, mainly due to the blend of heavy yet technical guitar riffs. Dennis is able to manipulate his vocals into many different styles, making his voice sound unlike anything that you have ever heard before. It is easily apparent that the members of I.N.C are using their previous experience in the music business to good use and they are able to create something exciting for metal music fans across the spectrum. The dramatic chanting also makes the song feel as though it has theatrical elements incorporated into it too, keeping listeners hooked.

Final song ‘Love Like Napalm’ is unlike anything else on ‘Black Horse Serenade’: the slow and passionate melodies sound and feel almost like the final number at a theatre show. The guitar riffs are not only technical, but they are also perfectly matched with the lyrics and hard-hitting vocals. 

It is becoming increasingly common for bands to state that their albums have concepts when they certainly do not, however, it is clear from listening to ‘Black Hearse Serenade’ that I.N.C have mastered the art of story-telling through their music. The lyrical content is both interesting and exciting, with emotive vocals to match. Although this album may not appeal to everyone, if you are interested in listening to metal music that is the perfect fusion of modern and classic, then I.N.C may be exactly what you are looking for. 

7/10

https://www.facebook.com/incmetal