Dead Child: Attack

After the 2005 reunion of Louisville’s iconic rockers Slint, members David Pajo, Michael McMahan, and Todd Cook found themselves with the urge to play something faster and more aggressive. Joined by drummer Tony Bailey and vocalist Dahm, they named their new project Dead Child and developed a sound that pays homage to the ‘70s and ‘80s metal bands they loved as adolescents.

Attack marks the group’s first full-length release, following their 2007 self-titled EP on Cold Sweat. The album begins with the catchy and vibrant “Chariot,” then becomes clouded with mid-tempo songs centered on hard but indistinctive riffs laced with bouts of guitar shredding. Tracks like the sludgy, Black Sabbathinspired “The Coldest Hands” and anthemic “Angel of the Odd” channel the band’s inner Rob Halford. But with acts like Mastodon, Saviours, and Witchcraft churning out killer records, Pajo and company are hard pressed to hold their own.

Dead Child’s solid musicianship, enthusiasm, and strong vocals make a fantastic party band, albeit one with the “metal” authenticity of Tenacious D. Listeners looking for something more intense should check out Bailey’s other metal band, Lords.

-Jamie Ludwig

Dead Child: www.deadchild.net
Touch and Go: www.tgrec.com