This trio from Chapel Hill, NC, rages forth with a brilliant collection of rocking tunes. Immediate lyrical and melodic hooks, catchy percussion, and stormy guitars are expressed on
Introductions to Departure, a massive tower of sound. Their heavy guitars and meaningful lyrics of the dark and mysterious lay down the framework for their attitude and persona. The vocalist, who just wishes to be called J, spills out his passion and angst through the emotional conveyance of his screams and shrills. Even with passion and a heavy rock sound to further its impact and resonance, the scores of odd time signatures used in each of the tunes express their genuine talent for rhythmic and musical dexterity. This is a delightful present to the indie world and those who call themselves fans of metal. Look for
Ladderback in the future to continue to release music with qualities of the abrasive, passionate, and melodic. With
Introductions to Departure, this is a glorious introduction into the dedication of such a forceful talent. ~ Shawn M. Haney