EAT TORCHE’S “KING BEEF”

No, that’s not a reference to Steve Brooks’s sexual preferences. But it is the title of a new Torche song, the first they’ve recorded since guitarist Juan Montoya’s departure from the band in late 2008. The genetic makeup of the band isn’t the only way in which Torche are different today than they were on Meanderthal; “King Beef,” which the good folks at The Deciblog are premiering at the moment, is darker in tone, heavier, and way more experimental than anything on that album. “Stoner pop” no more…

We at MetalSucks don’t have nearly the undiscriminating boner for the band that Decibel does, and I certainly don’t think this band deserves all of the OH MY GOD TORCHE priase they seem to get (much like, ahem, Converge). But they’re definitely a good band; in fact, Meanderthal nabbed an honorable mention on my own Best of 2008 list. I hope Torche’s next record is as good as Meanderthal, but if “King Beef” is any indication it’s gonna be a totally different beast. And as well it should be; when I saw Torche live as a 3 piece it was clear that those songs — penned for two guitarist — just didn’t work as well without Montoya.

“King Beef” is taken from Torche’s upcoming split 10-inch with Boris, due out on Hydra Head in February. Hydra Head bossman Mark Thompson says a Torche full-length will follow in June.

-VN

Torche – King Beef from Scion A/V on Vimeo.