EP Review: Monkey Puzzle – Scum (Self Released)

Monkey Puzzle is a rap metal band from Glasgow in the UK. After a partial hiatus, the trio return with their brand-new EP ‘Scum’. Recorded live, under a bridge in one of Glasgow’s most famous underground venues. It will be released on December 17th. 2021.

There’s nothing quite like starting off your new EP with the sounds of vomiting. Welcome to Scum and welcome back Monkey Puzzle as the trio come out spitting fire on Sick. A groovy guitar line, a mean drum beat, the bass comes swaggering in and then the vocals scream ‘Scum’ with all their might and we’re off and rolling. Angry and intense, Monkey Puzzle instantly remind of a modern-day Rage Against the Machine with this furious opener.

The funky but serrated rhythm of the verses and the savage, heavy choruses of Wurmz thrills too. Before Killjester showcases a dangerously addictive groove, one with a spitting and snarling set of vocals but standing out for the more laidback, yet worrisome, guitar sound.

Monkey Puzzle have already proved that this return was worth every ouch of sweat, blood and tears, but they’re not quite done yet.

Chuck Johnson takes things in a slightly different direction. The guitars play out a robust melody and the vocals deliver the vehemence, up until about the 2-minute mark, when we get an uptick in tempo. Before Crushbra ends things as they begun; punky snarl, rap metal catchiness and no-fucks given intensity. A massive highlight to end things on.

Rap metal is a genre that might make a few of you shudder but don’t let that put you off hearing what Monkey Puzzle have to offer. They lean towards the heavier spectrum and their talents shine through.

Monkey Puzzle – Scum Full Track Listing:

1. Sick
2. Wurmz
3. Killjester
4. Chuck Johnson
5. Crushbra

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