Review : Temptress “Chemical”

“Chemical” is an ode to real heavy metal enthusiasts. Manchester, New Hampshire band Temptress awards it’s listeners an authentic heavy metal experience. The contemporary indistinctive bellowing, trendy Gothic appeal exploited for aesthetic, is not what this band is dangling for your attention.

Heavy metal at its purest is when the guitar riffs are prodding and accosting, the vocals are dynamic and captivating, with overlaying drums that are throbbing, and invigorating exercising lyrics that are thoughtful yet ambivalent. Temptress exudes the aforementioned extracting the right elements to compound on their latest single “Chemical”. The new single will be officially released on October 31, 2019

Temptress is comprised of three members. Anthony “Danger” Coy who plays the guitar, keys, and bass, the lead vocalist Jake Funk, and the drummer John DiGeronimo. The Manchester band from the onset demand your attention with a punchy guitar riff and a vocal performance that hovers around the instrumental in moments of introspection and revelation. The lead vocalist presents what I consider to be a prerequisite for prominent rock bands that stand the test of time. The attribute is the ability to navigate cadence and pitch. It’s an attribute that’s embodied by all the great heavy metal bands like Metallica, Korn, Motley Crew, and more.

This song is jammed with all the elements of a quintessential memorable rock song. The lead has vocal range and dexterity with the capacity to meander a raspy low pitched cadence then swiftly shift to a light softer tone pitch.

Juxtaposed, with Coy’s intriguing transitions implementing a softer bridge that relays the aggressive moments of the record with its melodic moments seamlessly. The contrast makes the record more engaging throughout.

The adept display of DiGeronimo on drums magnifies the whole performance taking it to its peak.

The lyrics are thoughtful crafted with a philosophical propositions. Jake Funk sings “Only one life to discover”... “In a world so cold how do we know what’s right and what’s wrong, it’s chemical.” Referring to a humans intuition, that unidentifiable intelligence that instinctively informs us.

This is not your new age unintelligible vocals, with overly saturated riffs. This follows the mold of real hardcore, grungy, skillful drum breaks, riveting riffs, what resonates with many as real heavy metal. This bonds elements of wit, authenticity, creativity and skill. All the molecular constructs of real heavy metal, compiled in one “Chemical”.