None Of Us
Black Foundation

The None Of Us are an alternative rock band formed in '99 in Catania and despite the limitations imposed by a geographical position that is anything but favorable in musical terms, they have managed to persist, achieving several satisfactions over the years. Working on their music alongside figures like Kurt Ballou (Converge), Mike Major, and Alan Douches, as well as opening for Misfits, Satanic Surfers, and Lagwagon... Hold on, are we talking about a melodic hardcore project? No, and perhaps (indeed certainly) performing alongside groups more aligned with their proposition wouldn't have been bad. But let's get to the point, which is "Black Foundation," the fifth seal in a discography that is quite honest in qualitative terms. The album benefits from the experience gathered by the musicians over the years, to the point that I could almost define it as a fine alternative rock album. The sounds are warm and expertly balanced, the vocals manage to be gritty in the "hotter" moments and soothe the listener during the various melo-oriented episodes. The proposal of None Of Us musically approaches the Staind of the golden years, with powerful riff guitars and that sonic wall that surrounds and almost dazes. But fortunately, the Sicilian combo did not limit themselves, rather, they have sought in the warmth of stoner (a terrain already explored in previous albums) that useful ingredient to make the mixture of excellent quality. The only thing I liked less about this album is the production of the vocals in the melodic parts, in my opinion, insufficiently worked on and cold to the ear (the result should have been exactly the opposite, in short). In conclusion, thumbs up for None Of Us and their "Black Foundation," an album that's appealing starting from its artwork.