Rating: 8 / 10 Stars
THE KUT is: Princess Maha – Guitar/Vocals, Dianna Bartmann – Drums, Stella Vie – Bass
REVIEW – “Valley of Thorns” by THE KUT emerges as a striking full-length debut, weaving a tapestry of grunge, punk, and alternative rock with a unique flair. This album marks a bold entry for the London-based band, led by the versatile frontwoman and multi-instrumentalist Princess Maha, alongside Diana Bartmann on drums and Stella Vie on bass.
The album opens with “Mind Games,” a brooding track that sets the tone with its sinister lead guitar and hypnotic drum beats, crowned by Princess Maha’s yearning vocals. This song serves as a gateway into the diverse soundscape THE KUT masterfully navigates. “Hollywood Rock N Roll” follows, capturing the raw spirit of bands like L7, showcasing THE KUT‘s ability to channel the energy of the 90s alternative scene.
“No Trace” and “Rush Hour” dive into the realms of dark post-grunge, demonstrating the band’s versatility. In contrast, tracks like “I Want You Maniac,” “Bad Man,” and “I Am Vain” display a straightforward punk rock attitude. THE KUT‘s talent shines in blending genres without losing their distinctive edge, evident in the heavy, dark style of “Alekhine’s Gun” and “Mario,” and the grunge-influenced “X-Ray Eyes.”
The album’s standout quality is its lack of filler. Each track carries a unique character, yet they all are unmistakably THE KUT. From the wealth of dirty garage riffs in “Mind Games” to the live energy of “Hollywood Rock N Roll,” and the thunderous drumming in “I Want You Maniac,” the album captivates with its range. “Love in The Rush Hour” stands out with its melancholic melody, adding a layer of depth to the album.
Vocal performances throughout the album are noteworthy, especially in “X-Ray Eyes,” where Maha’s emotion-laden delivery adds a raw intensity. “Bad Man” is an audacious track, combining elements of punk and glam rock, resulting in a sound that’s both gritty and seductive. This track, in particular, embodies the album’s rebellious spirit, a defiant nod to the likes of The Pistols and Eighties Sunset Strip Glam.
Though some long-term fans might note the inclusion of previously released tracks, this does not detract from the album’s impact. Instead, it offers new listeners a comprehensive view of the band’s evolution. “Valley of Thorns” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a narrative of THE KUT‘s journey, showcasing their growth and the cultivation of their distinctive sound.
Overall, “Valley of Thorns” is a compelling debut, firmly establishing THE KUT in the UK’s alternative music scene. The album’s blend of menace and melody, coupled with its diverse influences, makes it a refreshing addition to the genre. THE KUT has not only paid homage to their musical predecessors but has also carved out their own niche, promising a vibrant future in the landscape of modern rock music.
For more information on THE KUT, visit:
www.TheKut.co.uk
www.Facebook.com/TheKut
www.Twitter.com/TheKutGirlsRock
www.Instagram.com/TheKutOfficial
www.YouTube.com/CriminalRecordsUK
www.Spotify.com/TheKut