Progress

Ultraspank

Product Details

• Audio Cassette (May 30, 2000)
• Original Release Date: May 30, 2000
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Sony
• ASIN: B00004TH86
• Also Available in: Audio CD
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars See all reviews (49 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #1,060,314 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com
Despite boasting an appellation better suited to a top-shelf flagellation magazine than an ear-scorching rock crew, the Los Angeles quintet Ultraspank pummel away with uncompromising metal belligerence. Their sophomore effort after changing their name from Indica in 1996 is a quantum leap forward from their eponymous 1998 debut. Leather-lunged vocalist Pete Murray careens from harmonic restraint to full-tilt throat abuse on the devastating "Crack." Incubus DJ Chris Kilmore joins the throng on "Stuck," which also benefits from the contributions of former Ozzy Osbourne knob-twiddler Peter Collins. Ultimately, Ultraspank relies on all-conquering force to steamroller listeners into abject submission. --Ian Fortnam

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The title speaks for itself: Progress, June 2, 2000

By	Robert L. Thompson III (Columbia, MO USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Progress (Audio CD)

Ultraspank is by far one of the more talented bands out there today. And here on their sophomore effort they do what all good bands should do, they mature and evolve into something better while not corrupting their own music.

The music itself features more of that distinct Ultraspank sound which has a kind of metallic edge to it. The drums are fierce and incredibly tight, heavily accented by the bass and programming. The programming, when not accompanying the drums, are utilized in many different fashions, more prevalent on some songs than others, either as a backdrop or as an intro to a song, or just as interludes that adds depth. The guitar seems to be the only weak spot, practically drowned out by the rest of the music though at spots it has it moments displaying the talent and originality that is there. All together just a melting pot of that techno/industrial sound, not really high energy but more of an alternative flow on the heavy side. Extremely good.

The vocals are just plain incredible. Pete Murray has an extremely beautiful voice that he utilizes to the fullest on several songs and can seamlessly switch to his other side, showcasing his dark, edgy, metallic voice which just complements the music so well. The backing vocals are simply that, coming on at the appropriate times and adding depth to the songs. Lyrically, kind of simple, yet not childish at all and on this cd Pete has a more distinct singing style that he indulges in. Not as much experimentation with the vocals as there could have been but still one of the strong points of the band.

The best songs on the cd are "Push", "Smile", "Left", and "Where" which are tempo-laden songs with beautiful melodic choruses that truly display this bands growth. The harder-edged songs like "Crack", "Thanks", and "Crumble" are good and reminds us of where Ultraspank came from. "Stuck" is probably the most experimental song on the cd while "Click" has more of a techno sound. "Jackass" and "Feed" are more melodic displaying different singing styles on them. Overall the production on the cd is much better than the original and this cd is much more complete.

Ultraspank definitely needs some attention. In a day where crossover and rapcore are taking over it's nice to hear a band that remains true to its roots creating music that is different, fresh, original and distinct. They have their own style which they are fleshing out well and as a band they will continue to grow into something even better. Hopefully Ultraspank will get the recognition and credit that they are due. Props to you guys. Other upcoming sophomore releases to check out: Soulfly, Spineshank, Cold, (Hed)pe, and Orgy.

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Whoa, talk about growth!, September 16, 2000

By	Mr. Censored (Maine) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)

This review is from: Progress (Audio CD)

This band sure has grown A LOT since their s/t album. "Progress" is basically a better pieced together, more thought out version of their first album. This cd sure blows that one out of the water. Unlike the original, this one never tires or gets dull, and the songs actually have different sounds for a change. My favorite track is "Crumble" which has an awesome, fast chorus and in between, the singer ACTUALLY sings! It sounds really good, at no metal fan should be without this CD. I HIGHLY reccomend this cd if you like Spineshank, Finger Eleven, Tool or Static-X.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars 0WNED., August 4, 2000

By	sc_demandred (Irvine, CA USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Progress (Audio CD)

Few bands out there today (in any genre) have had a sophomore album with as much growth and power as Ultraspank's "Progress." Some of the best bands out there have released smashing debut albums only to followed up with a disappointing return effort. Ultraspank, if all indications are correct, has nowhere to go but up.

The opening track "Push" is a beautifully crafted song, delivering us the bass-driven grooves along with Pete Murray's stunning vocal range. Murray goes from melodic crooning to throaty screams in seconds, proving his versatility as a vocalist. And may I add that the addition of Snot alumnus James "Cornfed" Carroll on drums is obvious and very welcome from the first song on. James' laser-perfect timing and creativity give this band a real shot in the arm.

Other favorite tracks of mine are "Feed", "Smile", "Stuck" and Jackass. Ultraspank has proven that they are better musicians then half the drivel you hear on the radio today, and are primed to step up alongside Korn, Tool and others of the new metal sound.

Santa Barbara does it again.