A Cruel World

Bloodsimple features ex-Vision of Disorder members Tim Williams (vocals) and Mike Kennedy (guitar). Cruel World, the band's debut, is also the first release from Mudvayne frontman Chad Grey's Bullygoat imprint (via Warner). Mudvayne's sound is definitely a reference point for Bloodsimple, as is later VOD. As heavy as much of Cruel World hits — the killer opener "Straight to Hate," "Blood In Blood Out"'s updated thrash swagger — it also makes room for things like "Running from Nothing," which links curse words and screaming with atmospheric, even melodic singing. In this way it's a pretty typical 2000s alternative metal record. The rhythm section stops and starts with Tool precision, the guitars are mixed to maximum thickness, and Williams tears at his soul with lyrics about insanity, broken teeth, and waging war on the weak. Williams is certainly committed to his rage — "Path to Prevail" begins with a banshee howl to wake the dead. It's Cruel World's strongest track, since its lead riff has enough room for melody without losing that viciously rewarding edge. The breaks suggest Disturbed, the drums pound like armies marching out of hell, and "You're full of s**t/I vow now to return/I've already been your God" is a chorus tailor-made for destroying Playstation opponents.