"Ringworm" is a word from English and means something like "the ringworm" or "the ringworm infection." These amusing words describe an inflammation of the scalp or the arms or legs, which can lead to itching and pustules. That sounds quite unappetizing (at least for those who do not count themselves among the representatives of masochism), but it actually says very little about the album "Scars."
In fact, the opposite is true here. I have since dubbed this record "screaming little disc," which might not really be justified given the hard style of the hardcore punks from Ohio. However, in my eyes, it is still justified, as there are one or two good reasons for it.
The "screaming" part could probably be thought of by anyone, right? If not, then I urge you to contact the nearest dyslexia association. The rest can confidently continue reading and think "I thought so" at the end of each sentence.
Only three seconds of drum rolls pass before it goes into the action with a bang. Hardcore-typical shouting style, beautifully distorted guitars, a bass that you only notice during a small solo, and of course a drum set with diligent double bass use. Qualitatively, it appeals to my hardcore taste, which is usually accustomed to US giants like "Madball" or "Sick Of It All." In fact, those are even the two bands I would have associated with "Ringworm" in second place. As the first tracks played over the player, the hardcore punks from Coburg kept coming to my mind. Well, who guessed it? Absolutely right, I'm talking about Rawside! The two singers really have an uncanny similarity to each other, which can, however, be distinguished by the different use of instruments. Because while "Rawside" really stays on the HC track, "Ringworm" builds bridges into the metal scene, which is expressed through the extensive use of solos.
The style is consistently pursued throughout the album. It bangs and crashes and rumbles at almost every corner and always leaves one thought: How will this sound live? I guess: Damn awesome!
But we are by no means dealing with inhumans. Thankfully, there are still two small stations where one can catch their breath. The songs "Burning Bridges" and "Empty" are pure instrumentals, with the first being a real turning point. The sudden use of violins allows one to breathe and briefly reflect on the preceding songs. While this happens, dull guitar sounds slowly blend in, which only serve a background function and maintain the calm atmosphere. Very nicely crafted! "Empty" feels more like a kind of intro to the following song "Hellbound," where the band surely thought: "This sounds so cool, let's make it the bonus track!" Also a very nice idea...
...which probably serves a second function. Because we are simultaneously coming to the topic "Why actually 'little disc'?" and "criticism." One criticism of the record is definitely its brevity. With only ten songs, the enjoyment of "Ringworm" feels a bit too short, especially since they have entertained me so well so far. But well, better a short album than a long one filled with pure boredom. Moreover, the criticism is somewhat mitigated by the fact that some songs like "Cleansing of the Fall" or "Scars" break the four-minute mark. The latter even goes beyond seven minutes! It is also the most musically diverse track you get to hear. Between double bass, solos, calm and fast interludes, or deep growling, one slowly approaches the end of the song.
Actually, I find it quite cheeky of me to only give it 7 points. Because in terms of quality, I think the guys are simply great! The actual biggest downside is indeed the lack of quantity. We have 10 songs, of which 2 are even instrumentals. That's a bit little and unfortunately prevents higher ratings. Also, the tracks themselves are not long enough, so it's hard to say "10 songs are not enough." Let's rather say that the few songs are not adjusted in length. Yes, that sounds good!
But that shouldn't stop anyone from listening to this album! If there had only been a few more songs, the rating would have been significantly better. So you dear guys from "Ringworm," keep it up! There is someone here who wants to hear you a few more times in the future!
Keep doing your thing!
