Klank "Still Suffering" (Five Minute Walk)

Darren "Klank" Diolosa has released his first solo album under the name "Klank". His brand of guitar heavy industrial music makes an excellent debut on "Still Suffering', which focuses heavily on abuse as well as human failure.

Klank was the live bassist for the former Christian industrial band Circle of Dust which disbanded mid-96. Elements of Circle of Dust can be heard on this release, however Klank clearly displays his own style. The vocals are actually sung in some parts and growled (as is the industrial custom) in others. As previously noted, the music is heavily guitar oriented. The programming was done by Celldweller, a name which is always associated with Scott Albert, the mastermind of Circle of Dust, however this album did not turn into a Circle of Dust clone. All in all, the programming is interesting, but the guitars are mixed so strongly over the top of everything, that the programming is almost hard to notice in places.

As for the subject matter of the album, don't pick up this disc and expected to be uplifted. Klank dives head first into the angst of the abused, as well as the futility of manŐs attempt to stand alone. While these subjects are extremely valid and often lack a Christian perspective such as Klank attempts, listeners may want to think twice about making Klank their musical staple.

Songs that standout on the album include "Downside", "Scarified", and "Animosity". "Downside", which was released on a sampler this summer, is still my hands down favorite. The song flows very well and is a more intelligent commentary on society. The programming on "Scarified" and "Animosity" is rather interesting. Be careful with the lyrics on the latter two songs. Finally, a remix disc by Klank is also out now. It features the original version of "Downside", 2 re-mixes of "Downside" and 2 more re-mixes of "Animosity".

Brian Smith
briansmi@ecn.purdue.edu

CCM