Jungle Rot
Fueled by Hate

June 2004
Released: 2004, Olympic Recordings
Rating: 3.0/5
Reviewer: Lord of the Wasteland

“Keep it simple, stupid.” Chicago’s Jungle Rot sure abides by this mantra on their new CD, FUELED BY HATE. The songs are metalcore-infused death/thrash with typical war/hate/suffering lyrics not unlike those of Slayer and Sodom. There are some Slayer-inspired riffs and solos to be found, but the band seems to owe much to New York City hardcore bands like Biohazard and Life of Agony, as well. There really isn’t a lot of variety from song to song and one really bleeds into the next. For all-out mosh worthy music that will get your blood-pumping and head banging, Jungle Rot is the answer but don’t look too deep.



Some good riffing can be found on “Face Down” and “More Demon Souls” and Dave Matrise’s hardcore/death growl on “Habit Fulfilled” is perfect for the songs. Some excellent double bass drumming from Eric House pummels through “Face Down” and “Gasping For Air” and is one of the best parts of Jungle Rot’s sound. Some of the songs (“Let Them Die” in particular) aren’t shy about introducing some good melodies and go from mid-tempo chugging to a speedier chorus.



This isn’t mind-expanding music by any means and in all fairness, Jungle Rot isn’t trying to be. Take this record for what it is…a solid metalcore release which will appeal to fans of Pantera, Slayer and hardcore.



KILLER KUTS: “Face Down,” “Let Them Die,” “Gasping For Air,” “Habit Fulfilled”