The Catalyst - Marianas Trench + 9

Oh the sweet sound of filthy muddy distortion. I have a feeling I would get along with the guys in The Catalyst very very well if were to ever come into contact with them. This of course comes after listening to their recent release Marianas Trench + 9, which essentially is a re-release of their ’07 EP of the same name with their 12’’ split with Mass Movement of the Moth and their 7’’ split with Brainworms tacked on. All of which have also been remastered by Carl Saff (Pencil, Neutrino). The compilation was just released this past Tuesday through the excellent Perpetual Motion Machine, which has released fine albums from Tulsa Drone and Wow Owls! in the past as well.

The Catalyst has been kicking around since about 2002, playing their aggressive assault of down tuned sludgy distorted post-hardcore and most likely causing havoc around Richmond and the state of Virginia throughout it all. To imagine what the venues must look like after these guys have played is slightly scary to think about. I can imagine a few people probably being unconscious and on the floor, whether from being beaten or from alcohol poisoning. Either one seems completely fitting. No matter what though The Catalyst undoubtedly leave a mess behind, both on record and I can only assume live. The music is played at a hardcore tempo and ferocity, however there is just as much AmRep type of earth rattling noise making taking place here as much anything else. It’s loud, crude, and most importantly powerful. Well worth the price of admission.

The Catalyst – This Bike is a Gravity Bong [MP3]
The Catalyst – Smoke Crack Worship Satan [MP3]

For those looking to pick this up, which if you don’t own any of the previous splits then I highly suggest doing so, head on over to Perpetual Motion Machine and order a copy.