THE DAMNED
Grave Disorder (Nitro)
Reviewed by Melanie Campbell

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Meet the new Damned, not quite the same as the old Damned but damned close. There have been various mutations of their original lineup, but amazingly enough, the band's attitude and philosophy have survived the last twenty-five years relatively intact. And considering they haven't put out a record since 1986, it's downright miraculous. But they make it worth the wait with their newest release. Grave Disorder is the ultimate modern-metal-retro-psycho-goth record -- in short, a record you always knew the Damned was capable of making. Founding members Dave Vanian and Captain Sensible's trademark witty, biting, cynical wordplay has never been better. It sounds as at home accompanied by all the snotty, thrashing guitar licks as it does stacked up against the Gothic piano and organ flourishes that abound here. Standout tracks worth repeated listen are the dark, driving intensity of "She;" the twisted pop-metal romp "song.com;" and the 7-minute tour-de-force "Amen," a paean to organized religion that will crack you up and give you goosebumps all at once. A long overdue, and very welcome return from true punk pioneers. Smash it up, baby!

© 2002 - Melanie Campbell