‘Talk Big’ takes shape slowly, fluidly, almost slow funk influenced before the actual funk is kicked into gear. Problem is, it’s not even really that funky, recalling more (Hed)PE half-assing its way through an early RHCP cover. Conversely, ‘It’s Tickin’’ kicks with a BEASTIE BOYS flavor circa Hello Nasty for the most part, only the outro dragging down any of the momentum SLOPE was close to gaining. ‘Chasing Highs’ carries on in this style, a very slight CIV presence revealing itself in the chorus but keeps the energy up for the entire tune.
‘Hectic Life’ is another winner once it gets going, and I’m starting to see why SLOPE labels itself hardcore on their Bandcamp profile. After an utterly confusing ‘It’s Always You’ (really nothing more than what sounds like a :28 butt dial, and about half as interesting), ‘True Blue’ achieves the funk SLOPE’s been trying to reach thus far, the band clearly comfortable playing with and off each other. ‘Ain’t Easy’ has my vote for the best BEASTIE BOYS / RATM rip off ever, but it’s clearly from a place of respect, so I’m here for it.
I really want to rag on closer ‘Out Of The Blue And Into The Black’ for filching a NEIL YOUNG & CRAZY HORSE song title, but this rip ‘n’ tear through the heaviest material on Freak Dreams is so far removed from the original that there’s zero chance of mistaking one for the other.
A mixed bag, for sure, but one I’ll likely dip into again from time to time. Good for driving, house cleaning, possibly working out. Versatility sometimes comes out as the winner.
Review By: Lord Randall
SLOPE
Freak Dreams
Century Media