Let’s be honest, the mere mention of the word “supergroup” can change people’s views of a band entirely. However, when a supergroup is composed of legendary musicians across the board, it’s usually worth checking out. That’s certainly the case with Giraffe Tongue Orchestra who’s line-up consists of members of Alice In Chains, Mastodon, The Dillinger Escape Plan and more. Now if that doesn’t intrigue you in the slightest, what will?

With their debut record ‘Broken Lines’, the quintet combine their indiviudal styles and influences non competitively to create a predominantly prog rock sound. ‘Adapt Or Die’ blows the doors wide open with fast, hard-rock grooves and high fuelled guitar solos, and there’s no pause for breath before ‘Crucifixion’ kicks in with it’s punky, psychedelic twists and turns.

‘Back To The Light’ is a standout moment aided by some badass guest vocals from Juliette Lewis, before the power balladry of ‘All We Have Is Now’ sees William Duvall produce the perfect ballad belt backed by a tasteful melodic guitar. Next up the peppy ‘Everyone Gets Everything They Really Want’ features the sort of funky bassline similar artists wouldn’t touch with a barge pole, and one that’s refreshing, quirky and different.

‘Thieves and Whores’ brings a psychedelic and disoriented feel, different guitar elements injecting at all angles with the crisp, tight drumming. Title track, ‘Broken Lines’ brings the album to a close with flying colours and a complete mish-mash of styles that are adventurous to say the least.

Don’t be expecting ‘Broken Lines’, to be providing full on heavy metal but, if you’re willing to listen with an open mind, there’s more than meets the eye to discover. Funky, fun and unique, this hopefully isn’t the last we will see of Giraffe Tongue Orchestra.

4/5

‘Broken Lines’ by Giraffe Tongue Orchestra is released on September 23rd on Party Smasher Inc.

Giraffe Tongue Orchestra links: Website|Facebook|Twitter

Words by Phoebe Messenger (@kangaezu_ni)