Parasite!

Ralf Gyllenhammer and co. formed Mustasch in search of a true metal outfit making ballsy riff-oriented heavy fuckin' metal. As I found out in their first North American live show ever earlier this year, Mustasch proved me that this is true. I was skepitcal, I tend to listen/not listen to certain bands based solely on name and Mustasch is a fairly goofy name and as I previously ignored this band because of it... and I'm sorely sorry. Parasite! is a nice little EP I obtained with their following full length Latest Version of the Truth. That full length is considered their best work and for a reason, it's heavy metal in the purest form, with loads of memorable riffs and catchy anthems. Finally, I decided to listen to this little EP and I cannot lie, I'm a bit disappointed.

I won't be too harsh though, after all it's just an EP, but still. Their are five studio songs and a live recording from a show in Sweden. The studio songs range from badass and fun to just boring filler. The slower songs like Kill the Light and My Disorder are just plain boring, simple as that. My Disorder is a pure throw away though, while Kill the Light at least has some decent riffing towards the end. Faster upbeat songs like Do or Die and Parasite are what Mustasch are all about though, the songs are fun and catchy and most importantly, memorable. Mustasch frontman, Mr. Gyllenhammer steals the show, with a performance full of energy and gusto, although somewhat lacking and a bit tame compared to the following efforts and full lengths but still does a great job.

The musicanship, which I found somewhat exceptional when I saw them live, hasn't changed here, it's competent and what it should be; not lacking but not above average by any means. The rhythm work and riffing is the basis of Mustasch's music with solid drumming and a traditional heavy metal bass sound. It's simple and effective heavy metal. Ralf's powerful vocal performance soaring overhead with much bravado and enegery, as shown in the live song, The Dagger; if his enthusiasm was any less than what it is I can't imagine this being what it is though. Mustasch create and perform a simple version of heavy metal, lacking in many areas as shown on this EP, with the lack of memorability and creativity, but at the same time proving to be just as powerful as the legends. It's hard to compare to other bands, it's just heavy metal, simple as that. This Parasite! EP is somewhat passable, if not for the boring filler songs, but still is a nice addition; check out their full lengths for Mustasch's most solid efforts.