A quick answer that those less familiar with SP might offer is an undoubtable yes. For those who've surrounded themselves with their music, you might have a hard time swallowing some of this as "really" Skinny Puppy. On initial listen, it's obvious the band has been very influenced by much of the edgier mainstream rock - I can't help but think the band really, really likes something as unlikely (for them) as Linkin Park because opening tracks "I'mmortal" and "Pro-test," the latter of which features Ogre rapping, of all things - and don't overlook the inclusion of Static-x vocalist Wayne Static on "Use Less," which also features Tool drummer Danny Carey. But you know what? It works. I was initially taken aback by the new, more mainstream attitude of Skinny Puppy, but once the shock wears off after a few listens, this is an engaging, satisfying album. Putting aside the notions of just what Skinny Puppy "should" be reveals that it's possible to continue on with a legendary name and not sully the name and image. They've rightly chosen to follow the vein that The Process started, but they've wisely managed to steer clear of that album's disappointments. Where The Process felt like a forced reaction to the light, radio-friendly pop that industrial had become in the wake of the massive success of Nine Inch Nails, The Greater Wrong Of The Right feels more like a natural progression - at least from the startling changes of The Process. Skinny Puppy die-hards will likely balk at the new, "easier" sound, but those who can look beyond this will find an album that is much more satisfying and enjoyable than one might expect.
"A sinister cabal of superior writers."
Article comments
1 - Smenkharon
I am very excited for this album and even more excited for the live tour! I hear Wayne Static and Danny Carey will be joining them on tour!
2 - stF
As a fan of skinny puppy wotk for some 10 years now I can say that the new album is not SP as before, it's just SP as now. They still continue to entertain me their own special way and that's definitely OK with me. 100% agree with your comment.
3 - revolut10n
Well, after having listened to this album for the 1st time, and having been a long time fan of SP (own 9 albums or so) I'd have to say that I like this quite a bit.. Granted, tis not the SP that I grew up with, but what the hell? We've had 9 years or so. People change in time. You cannot expect to hear the same sound year after year after year.. I'm glad this release turned out as it has..
4 - Progression: Natural?
Judging that Kevin Ogilvie paired up with Mark Walk to produce the two ingenious ohGr albums, recruiting him for Skinny Puppy seemed a shoe-in. As I heard this album, I was verified that Mark Walk, Kevin Ogilvie, and cEvin Key can produce excellent work together.