Gwar
Lust in Space

September 2009
Released: 2009, Metal Blade
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviewer: Alan Gilkeson

Who knows how and why some bands survive while others disappear into obscurity. Gwar for one have kept going despite more than a few lackluster albums. However, they have one thing going for them that no one else has, a terrific theatrical live show, that one needn't ever have heard one song in order to enjoy. Still once in a while, Gwar come through. 2007's BEYOND HELL, produced by the great Devin Townsend, with its intense riffing and powerful drums, turned out to be one of Gwar's best albums ever. LUST IN SPACE is more of the same, though maybe a notch below, it is still at the top of the Gwar heap, even if that heap is littered with a bit of crap here and there.



First off, LUST IN SPACE is full of anthemic masterpieces, perfectly suited for fist raising and headbanging at a Gwar gig. 'Metal Metal Land' is the perfect sing along song, great riffing and chorus. 'Let Us Slay', the album's main focus track, has a sort of punk vibe that these alien creatures sometimes go for, but is less powerful than some of there more punkier moments from an album like WE KILL EVERYTHING. But the top tune for a Gwar live set is 'The Uberklaw' a raucous rant of the highest proportions, with its biting chorus, squarely metal riffing, and Oderus's fierce bark.



Home again on Metal Blade, Gwar's LUST IN SPACE, is a triumphant return to the label which released their finest records, solidifying their return to metal. I for one am looking forward to see Gwar perform these songs live while they kill slaves, presidents, and other persons of note. A solid record, steeped in Gwar tradition.