[CD Reviews] TOMAHAWK – Oddfellows

Tomahawk, the Mike Patton-led supergroup, has resurfaced after a period of dormancy following their polarising 2007 album Anonymous. That particular album was equal parts ambitious and confusing, taking a significant detour from the eclectic but decidedly more straight-forward, metallic hard rock of their first two releases. For those disappointed with the subdued meandering of Anonymous, this new album represents a welcome return to their rockier roots. The line-up has endured just one change since the last album, with Trevor Dunn (Mr Bungle, Secret Chiefs) replacing Kevin Rutmanis on bass, while band leader/guitarist Duane Denison (The Jesus Lizard) and drummer John Stanier (Helmet, The Mark of Cain) round out the line-up.

Admittedly, after the first listen Oddfellows was a bit underwhelming, the songs not quite sticking the way I expected. Thankfully, after a few more spins, the melodies and quirks of the album began to reveal themselves. In fact, Oddfellows may just be Tomahawk’s most accessible album yet, featuring a healthy balance between straight-forward rockers and their more subdued and eclectic edges. ‘Stone Letter’ fits the bill as a solid choice for the first single. Patton’s distinct croon holds back during the verses before exploding into a wonderfully catchy, energetic chorus in the vein of ‘Rape This Day’ from Mit Gas; although not quite as dark or edgy as that particular tune. The restrained ‘I.O.U.’ takes it back a notch into moody, electronically-tinged territory that showcases Patton’s superb melodic singing. With 13 tracks wedged into a 40-minute package Tomahawk never overstay their welcome; keeping the songs tight and concise while retaining their more adventurous trademarks. Other highlights include the offbeat ‘Rise Up Dirty Waters’, which recalls Patton’s legendary Mr Bungle; the catchy, punk-infected rock of ‘South Paw’; and the simmering menace and addictive hooks of ‘White Hats/Black Hats’.

The versatile song-writing creates an enticing ebb and flow that in lesser hands might come across as frustrating or disjointed. In Tomahawk’s case it’s a bit like expecting the unexpected. Their moody dynamics, dark melodies and catchy hooks are wound into tight, coherent compositions, managing to retain a smooth flow amidst the colourful variety of the song-writing.   Oddfellows may not quite eclipse the sonic brilliance and vitality of their first two albums, but it’s a welcome return to form that comes well stocked with memorable tunes, excellent production and Tomahawk’s distinct song-writing flair.

Ipecac Records
8.5/10
Reviewer: Luke Saunders