Filthy Music Review - 'In the Guise of Men: Ink'

In the Guise of Men – Ink (2013)

Review by Jude Felton

Without a doubt I have listened to, and reviewed, more music from France than just about anywhere of late. Just as within the world of horror movies, there seems to be a real resurgence in top-notch quality tunes. We might expect the French to dole out quality grindcore, and they do frequently, but also hitting the streets are some outstanding death metal bands, and now this band; In the Guise of Men.

In the Guise of Men have actually been around since 2003, but this is my first exposure to them, which followed a line-up change last year. Anyway, regardless of what has gone before, you should be prepared to stand up and take notice of this ferocious four-piece.

Musically, Ink is an eclectic affair, full of pounding rhythms, intense and varied guitar-work, and most importantly the songs to back them up. Listening to this EP brought to mind bands such as Tool, Rage against the Machine and Angel Dust era Faith No More, while still keeping a sound of their own. There are even some moments where they veer closely into deathcore territory, in terms of some of the rhythm section. Fret ye not though, they are a million miles away from the shout, sing, shout, sing, chug, chug, chug, breakdown bullshit that has grown very tiresome.

Instead, In the Guise of Men isn’t afraid to take their music in a tangent of different directions, with multi-layered textures flowing through the 6 songs on this EP. This EP definitely surprised me, and is well worth your time. Check it out when you get the chance.

Track List:

1. Suicide Chop

2. Violent Overthrow

3. Drowner

4. Sale Paradise

5. Blue Lethe

6. Dog to Man Transposition

For more information about In the Guise of Men, and to purchase Ink, check out their Official Site.