Tracklist:
1- Regression (Video)
2- Regression (Instrumental version)
3- Let Them Die Slowly (Instrumental version)
4- Absolution I
5- Final Dawn
6- Regression (remix by Three Sigma)
7- Regression (remix by Mystral Tide)

Total Play Time: 31:13 (of music)

"Trucido" is the 'other' project for Ivan Bullock of Mystral Tide fame. With this project he is not alone, joining with Adam Hauch to create dark, aggressive music whether it be fast or slow in speed. Those familiar with Mystral Tide will be able to hear that project's influences in the music, but take note this isn't Mystral Tide cloned and given a different name. Trucido is a trip into powerful beats, dark atmospheres and images of humanity's animalistic/violent tendencies.

The most exciting thing about Trucido's music is that right when you have it catergorized as a specific "style of music", it twists it's sound to something new. "Regression" has a driving beat, which is kept entertaining by the shifting sounds underneath and voice samples of various sorts. Even more powerful, and highly addictive is the following "Let Them Die Slowly" which I found to be quite danceable. Slowing the pace down with "Absolution I", the music turns to a Mystral Tide style track (which it might be, not sure?). Full of beautiful strings, soaring keyboard lines and hauntingly beautiful piano pieces; this song is very emotional in nature. "Final Dawn" is the mid-paced, brooding track with the first non-sampled vocals present, and interludes of piano. The CD closes with the two remixes, which add their own unique flavor to "Regression."

Of particular note:
Track 3: "Let Them Die Slowly"
WOW !!! From the first few seconds of this song, I was impressed. This song goes for a faster danceable bpm; mixing in interesting voice samples, guitar (not overbearing though) and still finds room for a beautiful piano section. Behind the high speed beat, there are these haunting keyboard lines, constantly shifting to new sounds and keeping the song from becoming repetitive. Even at 5:56, this song seemed to short! This song is easily a favorite.

Track 6: "Regression (Three Sigma remix)"
The remix by "Three Sigma" hits hard with the bass, contrasted beautifully by an ambient atmosphere which is the songs's foundation from start to finish. Cutting out many of the original's samples, this remix progressively adds new elements built on top of the sounds it started with . At the 2/3's mark of the song I am surprised by the sound of a guitar being added. The guitar doesn't screech into the fluidness of the song, rather it compliments the beat making it that much more powerful. A very well laid out remix, that amazingly meshed aggressiveness with beauty.

Not only was this EP professional in it's sound, but it was packaged with an attractive and informative 4 page insert. One of the other truly amazing additions to this EP is the "Regression" video at the CDs start (yes, the music playable in a CD player starts on Track 2). This video flows from start to finish, and is very visually stunning. The viewer is beautifully led into the song, kept intrigued through it, and closes in a fashion which is very fitting. The video also better defines the song "Regression", explaining what inspired not only it but the theme Trucido as a whole wishes to relay. With such variety, and quality on this EP I cannot help but be anxious for more!

For those who haven't already done so also, check out the Trucido website for some non-EP songs, and more information on what Adam and Ivan have in store for Trucido's future.

Information:
Label: Trucido 2002 (independent)
Serial: n/a
Title: Regressions EP CD
Band: Trucido
Site: Trucido Webpage

Reviewed by Bry'n
5.20.02