Type II - Type II

Type II

Type II
self-released; 2014

3.2 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Type II is a band from New Zealand comprised of Mark Earl (vocals/guitar), James Jobe (vocals/guitar/bass) and Tim Radich (drums). They have been playing together since 2012 and recently released their debut self-titled album Type II.

If I was an alchemist the formula I would use to make up this band would be 70% Rage Against The Machine, 10% (Old School) Red Hot Chili Peppers, 5% Nirvana and 15% hard rock. My first thoughts when listening to this album is that the band is still searching for a sound that defines them. They know they like to rock; they know their influences but they still seem a bit confused about what defines their sound. 

I have to say to say that Rage Against The Machine is one of my all time favorite bands and they’re the only band that can pull off that sound. I think that Type II knows that as well but that being said they also wear that influence on their sleeve. Take for instance the opener “Smoke Inhalation,” which during the verse the singer even lets out a “uh” before they rock out which is a certified Zack de la Rocha trademark. When the chorus hits the album the band reverts to ‘70s hard rock. The mix of styles was interesting to say the least. 

The second track “Shotgun” is quite a deviation from the first track. They completely ditch the Rage type tendencies for a mesh of punk rock/hard rock hybrid. The song is fluid, catchy and well-written. Good job here. 

“Making Mesh” reverts to the style you heard on the first song while “Peripheral Vision” sounds like a mix between palm-muted metal and some alternate universe version of “Heart Shaped Box.” The last song “Believe You Me” is possibly the highlight as they mix intensity with a punk rock vibe.  

It’s obvious the band needs a bit of direction. If I were their manager I would say to dig into the punk hybrid hard rock thing they got going on. At this point that’s the strongest and most original aspect of their music. 

Become A Fan

Tweet