Futuristic? Yes. Space pop? Not even close. Frodus creates an unnerving blend of hyper-energetic punk rock and tight, intricate hardcore for a style that is truly their own. On their Tooth & Nail debut Conglomerate International, this three piece literally explodes with aggression and energy, while attempting to warn the people of what is to come. Screamed, ominous lyrics (such as "control is always automatic," from the sprawling "Invisible Time Lines") bring to mind such unsettling works as 1984 and Brazil, while Jason Hamacher's staccato drumming and Nathan Burke's pounding bass lines anchor this pulsating sound to the ground. Shelby Cinca's guitar playing (and his impassioned screaming) blends with the others to make for a truly inspiring, not to mention scary, record. Starting off with the harsh punk squalor of "Intention: Removal," Frodus makes good on their promise to spread the word about the future. Describing a bleak society that only ends in destruction, this songwriting is the type that is bound to make youth pastors and Christian bookstore owners everywhere more than a little nervous, and I can't blame them. Conglomerate International is disturbing, and that's what makes it so interesting. Any band that can cover Devo's "Explosions" with such fierce stamina is a band to look out for. Hardcore is an old wheel, and I'll be darned if Frodus hasn't reinvented it to near-perfection. Big Brother is watching, and if he's smart, he's got his eye on Frodus.
Other coverage for this album
HM Magazine #72Reviewed by Doug Van PeltThis three-piece from Northern Virginia has delivered quite an interesting package here. Complete with artwork that conveys the theme of the album's title, the album takes on a cohesiveness that could almost be called a concept album. The frenetic cacophony these three guys create with precise chops and heavy tones keeps this album totally grooving from track to track. The shouted vocals are a…The Phantom Tollbooth 1998Reviewed by Chris KingHey, have you heard the new Christian hardcore band Frodus? The above may seem like a valid question, but it is full of misinformation. Frodus is not a new band, they are not a Christian band, and calling their music hardcore doesn't even come close to adequately describing their sound. As a band, Frodus put out their first demo in 1993. Since then they have released four full length CDs…Similar sounding releases
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