Customer Reviews

The Sickness [Explicit]

5 star:		(314)
4 star:		(100)
3 star:		(36)
2 star:		(21)
1 star:		(51)

 

 

I bought Disturbed's THE SICKNESS, after not being able to get "The Game" out of my head following the third time I heard it on the "Funky Monkey" FM station here in Tacoma. This was already after I had heard "Stupify" (which I had originally thought was called "StupidFly"), "Voices" and "Down With The Sickness" for the hundredth time, each. While I kinda liked each song to some extent, I had always found myself making fun of them, especially with lead vocalist David Draiman's unique, and often annoying, vocal ticks and mannerisms (including the repetitive "Zooooo-ah!!!" in "Voices" and "OH-WA-A-A-A-AH!!" in "Down With The Sickness"). But then, I heard "The Game" and I decided, what the...

"The Game" has everything: Great keyboard sound, great drumbeat/bass, knife-edged guitar in all the right places, and a masterful combination of wistful-sounding, melodic, tenor-pitched singing with angry screaming that has all the impact of a kick to the head. And, you can dance to it! (Although I don't dance.) Above anything and everything else on this CD, "The Game" is a masterpiece--of its time and genre.

As I finally got around to playing the rest of the CD, I found that (to my surprise) most of the other songs are very good, and do not sound very much like each other. That really surprised me, because I had found the first three songs I had heard by them to be a bit too similar to each other (especially "Voices" and "Down With The Sickness"). Although similar themes are rotated around quite a bit on the CD, there is much greater variety in the music than I had expected to hear. "Violence Fetish" has a heavy-industrial sound, and the hook line "Bring the Violence/It's significant" is used to good effect. "Numb" begins with a new-age swirl of keyboards at the beginning that is both surprising and fresh, "Want" has a funky feel, and "Conflict" with its repeated snarls of "enemy" is dark, intriguing--but that's not all! It also features soft, almost soothing vocals from David Draiman in its quiet bridge, before letting loose with heavy rhythm; Draiman uses his synthesized voice as its own instrument here, as he repeats "Eh-eh-eh-eh-ENEMY!!!"

Now, for the *real* surprise of THE SICKNESS: "Shout2000," Disturbed's unbelievable version of the 1985 Tears For Fears classic "Shout." Blending some of the atmospheric keyboards of the original with modern, diamond-hard rhythm guitar power chords and upbeat, pummelling mid-tempo drumbeats, this is simply one of the greatest cover songs of all time. For me, it comes a very close second on this CD to "The Game."

The CD rounds out with two excellent songs: "Droppin' Plates" and "Meaning of Life." The former begins with some loud funky rapping by David Draiman, and blends it with dizzying '80's-New-Wave synthesizer, along with a '90's hip-hop beat. Pretty cool! The latter has elements of all the other songs: lots of rap-screaming, buzzsaw guitars, trippy synths, and lots of double-bass drumming, with plenty of expert time-changes, courtesy of the extremely talented drummer/programmer Mike Wengren. Two things that are clearly evident on THE SICKNESS are excellent musicianship and production values.

Given the fact that this CD is titled THE SICKNESS, I (of course) have decided to save my comments for "Down With The Sickness" for last. Essentially the title track of the CD, it is given entirely new life (and meaning) than the edited version played on the radio. It includes a bridge that is so violent and disturbing in its (de-)nature that it is the aural equivalent of DAWN OF THE DEAD, or AMERICAN PSYCHO, for that matter. The lyrics cannot be repeated here, even in part, and they are not included in the printed lyrics on the inside CD cover. All I can say about this section of "Down With The Sickness" is that it is not for the faint-of-heart, and delivers a far greater impact than the entire first Slipknot CD, which I also have and will review at a later date.

Forget about what the Amazon music editor says about the supposedly "XXX-rated HOOBASTANK," by the band of the same name. Hell, HOOBASTANK doesn't even have the Parental Advisory sticker on it--they don't even curse on their CD. Believe me when I say that, on the basis of "Down With The Sickness" alone, Disturbed's THE SICKNESS definitely earns it's Parental Advisory sticker--and then some. This is a significant debut from a loud and angry band, and I think that more disturbing things can be expected on Disturbed's upcoming sophomore CD. Then again, they may just turn around, and surprise me again. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Even now that nu-metal is about as popular as flannel, I firmly believe that "The Sickness" is a great debut (one of the best debuts this side of the year 2000) from one of nu-metal's best bands. Disturbed's follow up album, 2002's "Believe," is more mature than this C.D., but "The Sickness" is more imaginative. And it's full of raw aggression, off-the-wall energy, and catchy songs (almost every one of these songs is very catchy). "Stupify" has vocal hooks, whereas many of the other songs (i.e. "The Game" and "Down With The Sickness") have cool, fast scat (by frontman David Draiman). "Voices" is another highlight (it has stutter-step rapping and syncopated riffs), as is "Fear" (which has eerie electronics and a mosh-pit ready, fist-pumping chorus) and "Shout 2000" (which is a louder, more pissed off version of a song originally done by a band called Tears For Fears). Finally, with violent lyrics and mean vocals, "Meaning of Life" is a good anthem to listen to when you're mad at the world.

It may not be the most innovative or mature album ever, but this is essential nu-metal and a must have for everybody who has 1990's nostalgia. The bottom line is if you hate nu-metal, it would probably be wise to give "The Sickness" a wide birth, but if you do like this genre and this band, or if you are willing to listen with an open mind, you should really like this C.D.

Imagine Primer 55, Gravity Kills, and Cold all mixed up and you've got Disturbed. Their music can be described as a heavy groovecore with an alternative nu-metal sound mixed with electronica. The vocals are a kind of half-rap, half-singing style with a distinct sound that flows well with the music. There aren't really any standout tracks on the cd because every song is good but if I would have to pick a fav I would say "Voices", "Stupify", and "Down with the Sickness" are cool. They also do a good cover of the song "Shout". This band definitely has their own style and a distinct sound fresh to the music industry. One of the best debuts I've heard. Recommended. Other upcoming debuts to checkout: Papa Roach, Professional Murder Music, Glassjaw, Taproot, Slaves On Dope, and Sicboy.

Amazing, Great, Awesome, Kick [butt], Fantastic, This CD is every positive word that you can think of. This CD actual got me back into rock and they are now my Favourite Group. Im gonna give what I think each song deserves.

1. Voices (10/10) - Awesome fast paced song. One of my favs
2. Game (9/10) - This song grew on me untill I would repeat it several times
3. Stupify (10/10) - Tied for my favourite on this CD
4. Down With the Sickness (10/10) - The song that introduced me to Disturbed
5. Violence Fetish (8/10) - Awesome song but I tend to skip it every so often
6. Fear (7/10)- Another song that grew on me, Its great but one of the worst on the CD
7. Numb (10/10) - Tied for my favourites on this CD
8. Want (6/10) - I think this is the worst song on the CD, its still good
9. Conflict (8/10) - This song gets crazier and crazier, I love it
10. Shout 2000 (7/10)- Another song I skip alot, its still good
11. Droppin' Plates (6/10) - This is close to worst song on the CD for me
12. Meaning of Life (9/10) - I really like the ending for some reason

Overall my favourite CD ever. Stupify and Numb are two of my favourite songs ever and Down with the Sickness and Voices are freaking awesome as well. Theres nothing that I hate on this CD.

If you are a metal fan, this album deserves to be included in your collection. This CD starts rocking from the opening song and doesn't let up until the end. They have come up with a new, unique sound that doesn't rip off other bands. Dave (lead singer) uses an effective mixture of singing with some rap thrown in. His voice is powerful and he uses it well. The guitars and drums also sound great. The electronics are, for the most part, used sparingly but are a little overused on "The Game."

If you like bands like Slipknot, StainD, Static-X, Godsmack, and Sevendust you will dig this CD. If you are looking for a death metal band like Fear Factory or Sepultura then it will probably not be heavy enough for you.

Overall, this is the best CD I've bought in the last year. See them live if you get the chance. You wont regret it.

Disturbed is definitely one of the best of the new metal bands that have come out recently. i cant really compare them to any other band, but to me they sound kind of like taproot (another good band to check out). their style is pretty unique. vocalist david seems to bring the rap/rock thing together very well, and even adds his own stuff. he throws in his "ooh ah ah ah ah", yeah you're thinkin "what the hell", but you have to hear it. he also "sings" and changes his voice up constantly. the music is heavy and hard and the drummer stands out as being pretty talented. the single "stupify" is a great song, but there are so many more on the album, my favs are #2-the Game and #7-Numb. I suggest you give this cd a try, and when you find that you love it, spread the sickness to your friends

If all nu-metal were like this, then the subgenre wouldn't be looked down upon by those like your humble critic. It's not without flaw and is no masterpiece, but David Draiman and the band deliver a performance that embodies what all anger-driven metal should be: raw, uncut, and powerful. From the hit "Down With The Sickness" to my personal favorite "Violence Fetish" (appropriate, due to my sadistic nature... hehe), you get a load of metal power that you just don't get out of below-par bands like System of a Down (or recent Metallica, for that matter). Draiman's voice is incredible; his lyrics are a little too influenced by gangsta rap (or so it sounds), but his anger with the world is let out in a... constructive?... manner, and it all sounds good. There are a few songs that get repetitive ("Conflict"), but overall it's a good buy. "Shout 2000" is lots of fun; I don't usually like covers but this is a good one. Anyway, this coming from someone who isn't thrilled with the sledge of nu-metal that's been plaguing the airwaves in recent times: DISTURBED ROCKS!!!

David Dramain rules as one of the best lead singers out, along with Jonathan (KoRn), Kud (Mudvayne), and of course Maynard of Tool. Dave displays screaming, anger, and he can go fast, or a slow moan. The guitars do a lot of stuff with a simple up-and-down method. The bass is pretty good. The drumming has its moments, especially in Down With the Sicksness.

The most underrated track is Numb. The vocals go slow and fast, screaming and moaning. The guitar work is great. The typically found lyrics of not being able to feel are found here. This track, along with Voices, The Game, DWTS, and Shout 2000 are the best this album has to offer.

Voices-Nice flow. The lyrics are confusing at times, especially the verses. (9/10)

The Game-Good instrumentals that'll pump you up and great vocals. (9/10)

Stupify-this is the groups first single. The worst of the three singles in my opinion. Still a great song. (8/10)

DWTS-One of the absolute best songs by Disturbed. The best of the three singles. Starts with awesome drums and guitar. David Dramain proceeds to demonstrate him nearly unmatched noice-making abilities (ohWAHAHAHAH). The verse goes normally, the chorus is pretty good. Then in the middle, it goes SADISTIC. That's the song's highlight- that sadistic section in the middle.
(10/10)

Violence Fetish- Pretty Good track. (8/10)

Fear- Strange. (8/10)

Numb-As stated, one of the best. Should be used as a fourth single. (10/10)

Want- A semi-romantic song. "You want me" is the topic. (9/10)

Conflict-The song would've been better if after every single line in the song David yelled "enemy". Still, awesome. (9/10)

Shout 2000-One of the best covers ever. Nicely done. (10/10)

Droppin' Plates-I love it, like everything else on the CD. (9/10)

Meaning of Life-A great song, one of the other notable tracks. (8/10)

This is what I think is the best CD of 2000. Disturbed is catchy (and not in the annoying way (except for "Conflict")), they are the most original band I have seen since Rage Against The Machine, and the band is actually popular considering The Sickness has gone 2 times platinum and I'll bet it will go platinum at least one more time. The reason I say they are so original is because they made themselves just by 2 songs ("Stupify," and "Voices") and lots of touring (Ozzfest 2000).

Now to review the songs; "Voices" probably their most popular song and 2nd single is kind of old to me but I have the CD so it's understandable. "The Game" is a very good filler track with lots of electronics and good guitars. "Stupify" is one of my favorite songs on the album and was their 1st release, I did get sick of it for a while, then "Voices" came out and it rekindled my love for "Stupify." "Down With The Sickness" is the 3rd release and hopefully will send it to the 3rd time platinum, I think it's a great song and it has a very funny part near the end (which they cut out on the radio). "Violence Fetish" has nothing to do with sexual preference but it still mentions plenty of violence, not a great song but good guitars. "Fear" is a little bit better than "Violence Fetish" but never the less it isn't an epidamy for metal music. "Numb" isn't very fast but I like it as much as "Stupify" and it sometimes sounds like "Tool" a little bit. "Want" is an average song. And "Conflict" is just annoying, trust me. The 10th track is a cover of "Tears for Fears'" hit, "Shout," in which David Draiman (Lead Singer) has modified it and has made it "Shout 2000" and it is one of the best songs on the album. On to "Droppin' Plates," a poor atempt at rapping considering the song is "...a little something for your ear-hole." and "...Disturbed is in the house, droppin' plates.", 'nuff said, yo. And finally the filler track "Meaning of Life", which, thanks to Disturbed, I'm sure is sex, "...Now, can you dig it?" And since there are only 2 songs by Disturbed that aren't on the album I might as well review them too. "God of the Mind" is a great track with excellent bass. It is on "MTV's Return of the Rock 2" and also on the "Valentine" Soundtrack. And last but not least, "A Welcome Burden" I don't really understand what it's about but I'm sure it has something to do with "Pokemon" don't ask. It is on the "ECW Anarchy Rulz Vol. 2" and the "Dracula: 2000" Soundtrack. I hope you buy this album, and I hope to see more from this great band. Yo, Peace out, dawg! We be droppin' plates.

This is the best CD I've heard in years! The last few years, I've become very disappointed in the metal scene because everything is rap/rock now. Then I heard "Stupify" for the first time on the radio and was amazed by this band!

I couldn't get my hands on this CD fast enough. I still am amazed every time I listen to it, it's THAT good! This is one of the few CDs that I own, where I like every single track and don't have to skip around every time I play it. Every song is heavy and unique sounding and I think David Draiman has one of the best voices out there. Besides having great sounding music, their lyrics are incredible! The best tracks include "Down with the Sickness", "Stupify", "Numb", and "The Game".

I seriously don't think this CD has left my CD player since I purchased it. Disturbed, in my opinion, are the best band to have emerged on the scene since Tool back in the early 90's. I can't recommend this CD highly enough!