Wino
Punctuated Equilibrium

By Keith Carman

Were it not for Scott "Wino" Weinrich, the current state of heavy metal would be a pretty sad affair. Responsible for working with/creating memorable acts such as the Obsessed and Saint Vitus, his guitar style is instantly recognizable and enigmatic. History, however, is not always the greatest benchmark for a musician's current endeavours. Such is the case with Punctuated Equilibrium, an effort that displays much potential but is mired in stoic inertia. Overall, the album has great rhythm, however the majority of it just meanders along without any serious point. Some great beats and guitar riffs are never explored to their fullest, sacrificed for the groove/jam metal (bluesy Clutch, if you will) feel. It would seem as if after weeks of listening to Black Sabbath's "Rat Salad," Wino came up with a few riffs, hit the record button and simply nodded at his cohorts when it was time to switch between ideas. That can be wonderful for catching moments of inspired improvisation but for a 45-minute album it's rather draining. (Southern Lord)

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