Quicksand – Slip LP (Iodine Recordings)

Now, 30 years later, Iodine Recordings went on the ambitious task of giving this legendary album a proper vinyl reissue treatment. It’s almost impossible to track down all the vinyl variants this outstanding record label has put so far, but I must say, they all look incredible. Besides different vinyl variants, such as gold swirl, green/white swirl with black splatter, yellow/red swirl, bone/red/black splatter, evergreen, and red or green galaxy, you could also decide between standard, deluxe, gatefold with unique screen printed cover, and an edition with a book including a comprehensive collection of stories, interviews, never-seen-before, photos, flyers, gig posters, etc. Iodine Recordings did magnificent work by paying homage to one of the most significant post-hardcore records of the 1990s, so if you pay close attention to other releases, you’ll notice Casey is giving his best effort so every release could shine bright in the limelight. Each release is a piece of art, and that’s the case with the Slip. This particular green galaxy variant comes in a heavy, high-quality cardboard sleeve with a retouched original artwork, monochrome background, and an inlay with all the lyrics, photos, and all the important information you need to know about the record. Everything looks top-notch. Slip went under remastering treatment for this particular vinyl reissue edition, so it sounds divine from scratch to finish. It unquestionably sounds heavier, more dynamic, and more appropriate for these modern times. I am unsure if this is 180gr vinyl, but it’s unquestionably hefty and flawlessly done. Therefore, a pleasant listening experience is more than guaranteed.

As a longtime fan of punk rock and hardcore music, I was immediately drawn to Slip’s raw energy and intense sound. From the opening track Fazer to the final notes of Transparent, the album is a relentless assault on the senses. Quicksand’s signature blend of post-hardcore, punk rock, and alternative metal is on full display here, with each track showcasing the band’s impressive musicianship and songwriting prowess. One of the standout tracks on Slip is Head to Wall, which features a driving rhythm section and soaring guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics, which touch on themes of frustration and disillusionment, are delivered with a sense of urgency that perfectly matches the music. This sense of urgency is a recurring theme throughout Slip, with each song sounding like it could come apart at any moment. Another standout track is Dine Alone, which features a more melodic sound than some of the album’s other songs. The song’s chorus is particularly catchy, with frontman Walter Schreifels’ vocals soaring over the music. Despite the song’s more accessible sound, the lyrics are still as biting and cynical as ever, with Schreifels singing lines like “It’s a cinch to pass the time with you, but hard to pass the time alone,”

Perhaps the most impressive aspect of Slip is how Quicksand seamlessly blends different genres and styles. The album’s title track, for example, features a driving post-hardcore rhythm section but also includes elements of alternative metal and punk rock. Similarly, Freezing Process features an almost jazzy intro before bursting into a heavy, riff-driven chorus. Throughout Slip, Quicksand proves that they are not content to be pigeonholed into one particular genre or style. Instead, they take elements from a variety of different musical traditions and blend them in a way that is uniquely their own. This willingness to experiment and push boundaries is what sets Quicksand apart from so many other bands of the era. Of course, no review of Slip would be complete without mentioning the band’s incredible musicianship. Schreifels’ vocals are a standout, ranging from soaring melodies to screams and shouts. The rhythm section of Sergio Vega on bass and Alan Cage on drums is tight and precise, providing the perfect foundation for Tom Capone’s searing guitar riffs. Together, the four members of Quicksand create a sound that is both powerful and nuanced.

In many ways, Slip is a perfect snapshot of the post-hardcore genre in the early 90s. It captures the raw energy and intensity of bands like Fugazi and Jawbox, while also incorporating elements of alternative metal and punk rock. But what sets Quicksand apart is their ability to take these different influences and make them their own. Slip is a testament to the band’s creativity, musicianship, and willingness to take risks. I can say without hesitation that Slip is one of the best albums of its era. It’s a timeless classic that still sounds as fresh and exciting today as it was almost 30 years ago. Quicksand may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of its peers, but its influence on the post-hardcore genre cannot be overstated. Slip is a true masterpiece, and a must-listen for anyone who loves aggressive, boundary-pushing music. Head to Iodine Recordings for more information about ordering.

Source: thoughtswordsaction.com