Destruction of the Universe

A compelling blend of guitar propelled pop and venomous dirges embody Destruction of the Universe, the second full-length release from the London, Ontario based quartet, Scratching Post. Singer/guitarist Nicole Hughes' vocals are a tad on the high-pitched end of the spectrum, though her attempts at sounding like a heavy metal version of Juliana Hatfield are well-intended. Some extraordinary guitar work by Mark Holman, who scores with surging riffs that crunch and squeal, and the pounding drum work of Jeff Depew, more than compensate for any discrepancy in singing integrity. Hughes seems to be at her best when she allows her voice to linger through sweetly coated arrangements, staying solidly within the range of her ability. Yet her insistence on posturing as an aggressive riot grrl with a chiming voice offers an interesting contrast to the catchy, bone jarring rock assaults which make up much of this 25 minute, 8-track sophomore disc.