Stabbing Westward shows 'industrial' strength to be

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RATING: * * * *

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by David Gaskey

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Stabbing Westward's sophomore album, Wither Blister Burn + Peel, pushes to the forefront of the modern rock scene.

Following their notable-yet-unrecognized debut, Ungod , Stabbing Westward showcases mastery and form. Combing hard modern rock with interesting effects and strong rhythms, Stabbing Westward creates a flavor similar to Nine Inch Nails and David Bowie's Outside , but they are driven by rock and hard guitar rhythms. Their music, as far as quality goes, definitely stacks up with NIN and Bowie. This strength should help Stabbing Westward establish a secure following.

The first single off the album is currently hitting local airwaves with overwhelming success. "What Do I Have to Do?," one of the best tracks on the album, features solid industrial rock engulfed by surreality.

There is a good reason for Stabbing Westward's similarity to that of industrial music leader Nine Inch Nails. John Fryer, who produces for Love & Rockets, Cocteau Twins and NIN, guides Stabbing Westward.

Plus, Chris Vrenna, a NIN drummer, joined the band along the way and undoubtedly provided influence. He was later replaced by Andy Kubiszewski, who has played with Prick, NIN, The The and Crowded House. Mixed by Tim Palmer (Pearl Jam, Sponge), Wither Blister Burn + Peel proves that Stabbing Westward takes a variety of influences into its high energy industrial thrash that should help push them into the mainstream.

This item appeared in the Arts & Entertainment section of the February 16, 1996 issue.

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