The album Tiny Bears was my first introduction to this Belgian band, signed to Dreadlock Pussy`s Seamiew label. Like their Dutch colleagues, Gazzoleen creates heavy yet radio-friendly rock. Back in 1994, the year they started the band (using another name) their sound carried some thrash and metalcore influences, both are however hard to find in their present melodic sound.

"Filter" is already the second single taken from their impressive debut album. The video for “Filter” is actually circulating a lot on Rockzone (The Box). The song is worked out very well and characterizes itself by a guitar riff similar to Fear Factory`s more melodic stuff.

This killer riff is accompanied by steaming drums and bass. A few background samples and catchy vocal lines complete Gazzoleen`s sound. Vocal influences range from Layne Staley (Alice In Chains) to Paul Mendoza (Unjust) without ending up in the usual ‘nu’ effect (screaming vocals with lyrics that deal with the complicated lives they all seem to lead).

Remixes of both "No Stories" and "Filter" complete this interesting single. I’m not sure if this single will bring them to well deserved attention, but it definitely shows that we don’t always have to turn to the US to find great bands.