Gaggle Of Cocks are a hard rock band from New York City. The group’s last release was their debut, American Trash, nearly 10 years ago. With 12 songs totaling just over 46 minutes, their latest effort, Low Class Trendsetter, displays all of the band’s best qualities.
“Black Helicopters” kicks the album off in a big way. Starting with a snare and bass combo, the guitars provided by Pat Harrington shift into gear and form a groove that works well with the vocal pattern. “Low Class Trendsetter” starts with a dark, heavy riff that becomes very melodic and faces several changes in the song. The opening riff reappears to lie as a backing track for the soaring solo. “Sonza Bitchez!” is an instrumental piece that provides slow but effective melodies. Gaggle Of Cocks possess a strong rhythm section with the addition of Charles Ruggiero on the drums. Ruggiero and bassist Freddy Villano begin “Guy Supreme” and “Sexmusic,” forming a groove that allows the guitars to build upon the groundwork.
My favorite track on Low Class Trendsetter is “Caught Up In The Noize.” Heavy riffs play throughout the song and continue the aggressiveness set by the opening note. The drums provide great rhythm as the vocals lay on top. “I Am The Warlock” and “Sink” close out the album with brilliant guitar work. The key to these songs is the contrast between rhythm and lead. As rhythm plays a heavy, distorted riff, the lead lays melodic and high-register parts that fit in well with the rest of the music.
The band might’ve taken some time in between records, but the result was worth it. Low Class Trendsetter is a great LP from a local NYC band. The group harnessed their aggression and intensity into explosive drums, heavy and melodic riffs, and gritty vocals. It is an energetic effort that is both honorable, and infectious.
In A Word: Intense
