This self-titled killer debut unleashes an energetic mix of anger, frustration and boredom, all channeled into one sound. This ugly (as Roadrunner states) six piece found their way in the music business through a loyal friendship with Shawn ‘The Clown’ (Slipknot). Kuk (bass) and sample operator Church’s previous band opened for Slipknot in 1999, which got them their current deal with Roadrunner Records.

This ferocious record was produced by GGGarth (Spineshank, RATM and BoyHitsCar) within six weeks. downthesun (no capital letters!) means drawing down the energy of the sun to create an own circle of magic. The band and the music are built up by contradictions: the sun and the moon, friend and foe, ying and yang, truth and lies etc. Contrary to Slipknot’s one-dimensional agro-metal, downthesun vary agro styled songs like “Medicated” and “We All Die” with almost ballad-like songs such as “Lucas Toole” (two serial killers) and “Listen”.

This refreshing combo has been done before by Mudvayne, but downthesun still has it’s unique sound. Heavy riffs and rolling drums are supported by electronic samples, which complete their sound, and then a highly-underrated band like Ultraspank even comes to mind!

The great vocal war between singers Aaron and Satone (ex-Slipknot) releases a pessimistic view on American society. They complement each other perfectly! Both are screaming, grunting and growling, alternated with a clean voice. Both lyrically and musically this album reaches its climax with “Pure American Filth”. I don’t think I have to explain what this song’s about… Do I? A first-class recommendation!