At first listen I was ready to dismiss this group as another of today's loud, marginally talented groups that takes one guitar hook, drives it into the ground, screams its lyrics, and becomes a hit for no apparent reason (see also: Disturbed, Linkin Park, Limp Bizkit). I am pleased to report that this would have been a mistake. Only one song on Semi-Automatic's self-titled debut ("Dirty Sex") falls into that category.
"Darkest" leads off the CD, and is the highlight. It combines modern rock with harmonies, and throws in an early-90's guitar solo for good measure. Think of a harder-edged Bush or Sponge, and you have an idea. "On My Way Down" sounds a lot like grunge, featuring Alice In Chains-type guitar, and in the same rhythm as "Even Flow" by Pearl Jam.
"Hardened," a song about the end of love, recalls AIC again. "Onward Parade" could be a Trouble outtake and makes me wonder if lead singer Dave Becknell has heard Supershine, the Bruce Franklin/Doug Pinnick side project. "Attrition" leans toward Faith No More, and "Kubrick", a tribute to the late director, approaches Jellyfish at times.
"Dandelion" is the song that doesn't fit, sounding like an updated version of .38 Special (perhaps a semi-automatic would be an updated version of .38 Special?). The album closes with "Black Monday," an instrumental that evokes The Cult.
Overall, not a bad debut for this northern Kentucky-based band. "Darkest" and "On My Way Down" will end up on a mix CD in my collection, and the rest will get the occasional play. Looking forward to seeing if this group continues to grow musically.
3.5 tocks
