By Andrew Bansal
November 19th 2016, The Lexington, Los Angeles CA: Even in a market as heavily saturated as it is, there is always scope for a metal band to push the envelope and emerge with something new, unique and engaging. Tempe, AZ group Take Over And Destroy are doing exactly that with their fresh take on dark heavy music, blending elements of death rock, Scandinavian extreme metal and rock n’ roll into their musicianship, which they’ve presented through three full-length studio albums and various EP/split releases over the past 8 years of their existence. The latest effort is the beautifully compelling self-titled LP, unveiled in October 2016 via Prosthetic Records. Take Over And Destroy played two Southern California album showcase gigs, including an appearance at the Lexington in downtown Los Angeles on Saturday November 19th, where they put on a memorable, uplifting performance in the most uninspiring circumstances.
But before the headliners got their turn, local trio Erode provided support with their brand of death-doom. For a three-piece, this band sounded massive, as their bleak riffs, clearly influenced by the likes of Yob, Pallbearer, early Opeth and old-school doom/sludge, resonated through the room and made an impact. The band, formed in 2015, is still very new, and of course has plenty of potential to strengthen and develop their sound further, but even at this embryonic stage they make a legit opening act for touring extreme metal bands that come through town, and props to the local concert promoters who still believe in giving opportunities to young talent such as this without subjecting them to pay-to-play.
Contrary to popular belief, and speaking from personal experience, coming to Los Angeles on a weekend is, in many cases, actually less beneficial for a touring band than doing so on a school night, simply because of the huge variety of live entertainment on offer on a typical Friday or Saturday night, and the vast number of choices for the concertgoer as a result. This show, booked relatively last-minute, got caught in the midst of a very busy Saturday here in LA and surrounding areas, and by the time Take Over And Destroy took their positions on stage, very few remained in the Lexington to watch their set.
But, as touring bands performing in underground venues should be, Take Over And Destroy were unflustered by the turnout and went about their set professionally, giving it their all for the select few that stayed, making it worthwhile for themselves and the audience alike. Their newest album is a splendid piece of work in every sense, and was fully brought to life as they nailed the performance and tone of it all. The melody emanating from the guitar harmonies was captivating, and the combination of clean singing and death metal vocals intertwined together was the standout aspect. It takes a certain level of expert precision to do full justice to music of this style, and Take Over And Destroy is clearly a group of musicians very much in sync with each other. Their joint effort created an emotionally powerful sonic experience and left attendees with zero regret. There is bliss in the depressive, ominous nature of Take Over And Destroy’s music, felt not only from listening to the studio recordings but to an even greater extent upon witnessing the band live.
By all means, an incredible performance by a gem of a band that beckons to be fully discovered by the metal underground.
If you like what you’ve read, make a donation of any amount and help keep Metal Assault running full time!
