Noxagt
s/t
Load Records

I don't know if there's a proper term to describe what Noxagt exactly is. When I listened to their third release on Providence, Rhode Island's Load Records, the only word I could think of was 'intense'. I had an assumption of what to expect with this record when I saw it was a Load release: it was definitely going to be noisy and maybe even challenge me to enjoy it (which I did.) Although some may think that seven tracks is a bit short for an album, Noxagt make effective use of this by playing unrelenting instrumental/sludge rock in the vein of bands like High on Fire and labelmates Lightning Bolt. Each track pummels into the listener's ear as bass, drums and spring-loaded guitar combine to create droning soundscapes that get progressively more violent and intense as you listen.
- Navy Keophan