TAR - Roundhouse LP

Tar were an uncompromising prolific Chicago four piece band from 1988 to 1995 who put out many records and toured the US and Europe frequently with the likes of The Jesus Lizard, Arcwelder, Unsane, Surgery, and Jawbox.

Relentless, punishing, but never oppressive. A little bit Shellac, a little bit Jesus Lizard, but more direct in its attack, this is some fine noise rock. The closest cousin to their sound is then-labelmates Helmet.

So this is prime Amphetamine Reptile and an album featuring a twin-guitar assault, using both guitars as propulsive textures layering over syncopated, but oddly metronomic beats. The vocals straining under all that racket, just another noise in the mix.