'Three Skulls'
2011
Review By Matt Hill
LOCKIN are a three piece band from Leeds and formed in 2008, their current bass player joined them a year ago which renewed their energy to write some new material which they eventually recorded to give us the EP 'Three Skulls' which was released under their own record label aptly named 'Triskull Records'
Lockin are:
Dave Battle - Vocals/guitar
Ben Dickinson - Bass/vocals
Mart Hills - Drums
When listening to 'Three Skulls' you hear that there are no self indulgent guitar solos or attempts to 'out heavy' other bands, Lockin have formulated their own sound and style by throwing all of their influences into a pot and then mixing it up and it works, throughout the album you can hear nods to a host other bands but if you're after pigeon holing this album neatly into a box, then it ain't going to happen, and why would you ?
There are elements of groove metal, thrash, hard rock and alternative rock, there was a lot happening in this debut recording from the Leeds trio.
The title track 'Three Skulls' has a strong groove to it with a few time changes throughout the song which make interesting listening, 'Never Give Away' is an instantly likeable tune with big hooks and lyrics that are easily picked up that you're singing along in no time,.
'Black Horizon', 'Own Worst Enemy' are all in the similar vein, songs with big riffs and the catchy qualities of the others but different enough to not fall into the pitfall of every song sounding the same.
Stand out track for me was the softer but no means lame 'Nightworker' the intro creating an ambient atmosphere with an orchestral back drop alongside the tolling of a bell you can't help but get drawn in and listen intently to what the lyrics have to say, also a great demonstration of the versatility of vocals by Dave Battle..
Lockin have been compared to Black Label Society, Disturbed, Pearl Jam, Clutch & Tool to name a few, similarities I'm not going to concur or deny, go to the website and listen for yourself, you'll be glad you did.
I wait with anticipation for more good things from these guys and I look forward to seeing them perform live at the Metal Gods Festival 2012
