These Arms Are Snakes - Easter (Jade Tree)

So here we are, new These Arms Are Snakes album. I remember talking to them during the writing process and a couple of the dudes mentioned listening to a lot of Khanate, saying how they still couldn’t wrap their heads around that kind of song structure. So does that show in Easter? Yes and no. Khanate’s style of free flowing almost organic song structure rears its artsy little head throughout the tracks, but it’s definitely not the only influence. I know this is going to come across as blasphemous, but my ears are picking up a good dose of Pantera influenced powergroove. Not in the overdone Victory Records style of copping breakdowns straight off of Vulgar Display of Power, but in the “I can’t help but bang my head along to the Dimebag brothers” kind of way. Phil Anselmo is still a dick. With Brian Cook still laying down bass duties, I can’t help but point out the similarities to Botch’s later work. Just less “angry” and more “art.” Do yourself a favor and check out the video for “Horse Girl.” Two words: lazer pony. Enjoyable for fans of Botch, The Blood Brothers, and Pantera bros with an open mind.

- Tyler Moore