Karma to Burn - _Almost Heathen_
by: Aaron McKay (
What to do? I find myself in a predicament of perplexing proportions. This West Virginia three piece is an obviously talented trio, but their style isn't something I find myself intrigued by. The groove present in all ten tracks on _Almost Heathen_ is opulent and lavishly rich -- no doubt there. There are no vocals at all; it has been that way since putting out their self-titled debut in 1997. I may have liked to hear that particular manifestation of the band since the all-instrumental version of Karma to Burn leaves me a bit desiccated. This being my first exposure ever to this outfit, I cannot draw any comparisons to previous material. I understand the band opened for Metallica a number of times, but I am unable to say conclusively if that was "old" or "new" Metallica; my guess is "new". I can tell you, however, if you are a fan of heavily melodic, trippy, groove-laden instrumental material, Karma to Burn may be for you. For me, although not a prerequisite, I'd appreciate some vocals from KtB and a broader range of material, too, I think. As for my predicament, I resolved how to score this by anticipating how much I will listen to _Almost Heathen_ and five times out of ten is high-ending it a bit, but KtB are skilled musicians and that counts for something; that much is evident.
(article published 8/12/2001)
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