Our Problem
Our Problem gives Iron Monkey's dirty sludge a particularly firm groove. Guitars are low and heavy while the voice aims for abrasion rather than clear words. The music never becomes trapped within its own aggression, however. Riffs remain recognisable and the drums give them enough movement to maintain attention.
Bad Year immediately shows why this works. Its patterns are not especially complicated, but rhythmic changes give the song a clear development. Drums place accents which sharpen the guitar work. The interaction makes simple ideas more powerful than another layer of distortion alone could.
The voice is an important part of the texture. Rough cries strengthen the unease even when the words are difficult to follow. This will not work for every listener. The singing leaves little distance and maintains similar aggression for long stretches. Anyone mainly seeking a clear melodic voice receives few concessions here.
Guitar playing provides more to follow. Heavy, traditional metal riffs often have an immediately recognisable rhythm and keep the music moving firmly. Even in the much longer 9 Joint Spiritual Whip, the band continue using fresh riff movements. Its larger structure relies on that developing guitar work rather than resting the whole piece on one pattern.
The length still requires patience, particularly when later passages develop their ideas more extensively. Our Problem works best when riffs and rhythms strengthen one another directly. At those points, Iron Monkey deliver especially convincing sludge: rough, heavy and clearly shaped enough to offer more than a sustained outburst. The record retains its uncomfortable edge, but provides enough strong guitar patterns to remain interesting beyond that first impression.
