MUSHROOMHEAD — XIII (review)

Album · 2003 · Nu Metal

5/5 · 2015-10-16
Unitron

Mushroomhead - XIII

'XIII' is the fifth studio album by alternative metal band Mushroomhead. Mushroomhead is, in my eyes, one of the best examples of a misunderstood band. They are often unfairly compared to Slipknot simply for their similar stage appearance. However, not once during my listening did I think of Slipknot.

The music heard here sounds more in line with bands like Faith No More than Slipknot. In fact, the bands that came to mind for me were Faith No More and Dream Theater. 'Mother Machine Gun' is probably my favorite on the album, which I think gives a perfect idea of the sound. You have crushing riffs and harsh vocals. It all balances out though with melodic vocals that remind me of a mix of James LaBrie and Mike Patton. To top off the influences, there's some nice piano work and an atmosphere that sounds like it came right out of 'Angel Dust'. The way the songs are set up with the atmospheric keyboards and electronics in the background, the harsh vocals kind of sound Faith No More-like when Faith No More were at their more aggressive. Opener 'Kill Tomorrow' is another favorite, having the similar balance of styles but with some nice speeding riffs.

The description above pretty much describes the majority of the album. There are a few slower power-ballad type songs, but most follow the same balanced sound of 'Mother Machine Gun'. While the album is repetitive, the majority of the songs are strong enough to not be a boring repetition. I certainly recommend this album to any fans of Faith No More. Hope you found this review helpful.

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more than 2 years ago
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Vim Fuego wrote:

more than 2 years ago

Actually, just listened to that song... More like a heavier Faith No More. Funny how memory plays tricks sometimes...

Vim Fuego wrote:

more than 2 years ago

To be fair, when Mushroomhead first came out they sounded like Slipknot clones, although I've heard Mushroomhead came first. All I remember about them is a video with a Trojan rabbit...

Kingcrimsonprog wrote:

more than 2 years ago

Good band, so underrated. One of the very best concerts I've ever been to was Mushroomhead, they were amazing. I hate how people dont give them a fair chance or think of them without mentioning Slipknot.

Unitron wrote:

more than 2 years ago

I'm new to them myself, but yeah, they do kind of have a theatrical sound. I was reminded of a movie soundtrack at times when I listened to this one.

martindavey87 wrote:

more than 2 years ago

I got their 'XX' album when it first came out, but only recently have started to get into this band. I love the theatrical approach they have to their music. Definitely more comparisons to Faith No More than Slipknot.

Unitron wrote:

more than 2 years ago

Yeah, a really fantastic song. Mushroomhead is a really underrated band.

Kingcrimsonprog wrote:

more than 2 years ago

Brilliant song. Good shout on 'Mother Machinegun' too!