Clamfight Self-Titled CD Review
Philadelphia’s Sludge-slinging bad boys, Clamfight, return with their long-anticipated fourth release, an album forged during the tumultuous backdrop of the pandemic. According to the band’s accompanying bio, the direction and themes evolved in response to those world-altering events, and it shows.
Admittedly, this is my first exposure to Clamfight, surprising, considering I pride myself on having a solid grasp on the Sludge scene. Somehow, they slipped through the cracks. I deliberately held off on exploring their back catalog to give this record my full attention, and I’m glad I did.
The album opens with “Oar,” an eleven-minute journey that serves as a powerful introduction to the band’s sound. It’s slow-burning, weighty, and emotionally dense. The rhythm section hits hard, and the riffs rain down like manna from the heavens. There’s a primal, almost Neanderthal sensitivity to this track, you can feel the emotional core without it ever becoming overwrought.
Next up is “Brodgar,” a track steeped in emotional resonance. The addition of female backing vocals is a bold choice, though not entirely successful, they sometimes distract rather than complement. That said, the male vocals, lyrical themes, and overall mood are more than strong enough to carry the track. The lines “Home is both here but so far away. My heart in two places ever more” - poetic, heavy, and deeply felt.
For fans of classic, knuckle-dragging Sludge, “Dragonhead” delivers the goods. It’s a sonic onslaught, almost overwhelming at times, but saved by razor-sharp riffs and tastefully executed lead breaks that give the track shape and purpose.“FRH,” a short instrumental, offers a welcome shift in tone. Acoustic guitar and atmospheric keys come together to create a haunting interlude. At just two minutes long, it’s brief but memorable - a rare moment of introspection in a genre that rarely indulges in softness.
The album closes with a trio of standout tracks: “Drinking Tooth,” “Clamfight,” and “Red Tail.” “Drinking Tooth” builds into a bona fide Rock ’N’ Roll moment, explosive and anthemic, with a riff and melody line that perfectly echoes the lyrics. The self-titled “Clamfight” is chaotic but compelling, especially in its early moments, while “Red Tail” veers into unexpected Southern Rock territory, evoking shades of the Allman Brothers in its swinging rhythm and melodic runs. It’s an unexpected but delightful turn.
Overall, this is a thrilling and diverse album that defies the conventions of Sludge. Clamfight clearly marches to the beat of their own drum, and this release is testament to that spirit. I’m genuinely excited to dig into their earlier work. And if this is your first time hearing them too, don’t wait!