Reviewed by Ian Webber

With this their third full length release in as many years, OTO are a hard working outfit from North Carolina who now offer up another solid piece of metalcore. As with previous outings they present us with yet another change of vocalist. Drummer Matt Hudson has taken over clean vocal duties and these now feature more prominently in the mix. Having said this, there is still an overriding crunching and chugging feel to the recording. With a greater emphasis on the clean vocals, the contrast between relentless riffing and soaring choruses can be quite jarring and some momentum is at times lost. The first vocal track, "Strange Forest" contains a strangely melodic chorus that does not sit comfortably with the rest of the track. However, the next offering, "Wolf's Jar", makes a much more successful attempt at integration and is one of the stronger tracks on the album. By far the best moments on 'Indicator' come when the five members are at their most aggressive, delivering honest lyrics with venom. Double peddling, staccato rhythms and bass drops are all performed with skill and provide for an exciting listen. The production on this recording has stepped up from previous releases, giving a crisp, immediate feel. With this release OTO have produced a competent third recording. It may well be lost amongst more established acts but will certainly be appreciated by their fans.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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