New Killer America
New Killer America gives its heavy riffs a more atmospheric setting than the basic style might suggest. Skrape use keyboards, prominent bass and Billy Keeton's varied voice to create space around the guitars. The sound remains firmly within alternative metal, but the arrangements have enough melody and texture to make several songs stand out.
Isolated makes good use of that wider palette. The electronic atmosphere sits alongside the heavier playing, creating an unusual setting without losing a clear tune. It is a useful example of the band adding another colour to a recognisable guitar sound rather than abandoning its weight.
Sunshine and Goodbye place more emphasis on the slower, melodic side. Keeton has room to use a cleaner delivery, and the heavier backing gives that singing a substantial foundation. These songs are convincing because their atmosphere and vocal appeal work together, instead of treating a softer section as an automatic source of contrast.
Kill Control finds a stronger groove within the same broad sound. The keyboards add character around the rhythm, with the voice helping the song retain an accessible shape. The production also allows the bass to remain noticeable, giving the heavier passages more than one clear moving part.
Waste is a more direct version of the band's approach, combining a raw guitar setting with a layered vocal hook. It is effective on those terms, although the more atmospheric songs make a more individual impression. The album is less interesting when its riffs and structures stay close to a familiar formula.
That is the main limit on New Killer America. Some guitar sounds can feel flat, and the mixture of influences does not always form a fully distinct identity. The sequence also places some less memorable material around the stronger middle section, reducing the impact of the complete album.
Even so, the melodic singing, electronic touches and clear instrumental balance give the record a worthwhile character. Skrape are most convincing when the heavier playing leaves room for an atmosphere to develop. The best songs suggest a broader imagination than the more ordinary moments allow.
