Review: The Real Codington Factory - 'Nickel World' (Cruel Nature)

Cruel Nature are one of life's certainties, along with death and taxes; you just know that every month or so they will release a slew of top notch albums. September is no different with four exceptional, but disparate, releases. In this reviewer's humble opinion the standout is 'Nickel World' by The Real Codington Factory.

I must admit that I had never heard of The Real Codington Factory prior to the Cruel Nature promo email reaching me, however it transpires that they were formed by Shea Glasheen from Cronies, an outfit I am familiar with. Remarkably 'Nickel World' is their 14th release - I can see this becoming another of those rabbit holes we so love/hate!

Musically what we have here is pure, unadulterated noise-punk. The promo references Lightning Bolt, Melvins and Tad and they are certainly touchstones. My first thought went to a faster Killdozer but as you listen to the album different aspects become apparent. From the opening track 'Smalls Jerri' with it's hardcore riffage that makes an old punk like me very happy indeed, through to the final track 'Brock Lee' and its insistent Big Black drumbeat 'Nickel World' is a rollercoaster of tumultuous uproar. However, this no one-dimensional noise album; there is enough variety to keep the listener engaged and listening. There are flashes of off-kilter garage punk a la Wooden Indian Burial Band, some pummelling drums of the aforementioned Big Black and empassioned vocals worthy of Henry Rollins. What is patently obvious, however, is that The Real Codington Factory make a righteous noise that is enthralling as it is disturbing at times. It refuses an absolute categorisation and that is a (very) good thing. It's loud, it's heavy and it's bloody wonderful!

As ever with Cruel Nature, good things come in fours. Along with 'Nickel World' September sees a new one from Nadja, sounding heavier than they have ever been ('Labyrinthine'), some glacial, brilliant post-punk from Tenchpress ('Tombmagic') and some immersive, darkly ambient electronic musings from Daniel McClennan ('Unfurling Redemption'). Seriously, fill your boots! All tapes are up for pre-order at the Cruel Nature Bandcamp site with releases on 2nd Sept (except for the Nadja which is released on the 6th)



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