Sunday, May 13, 2012

Paul Barker - "Fix This!" CD

Packaged with the Ministry "FIX" documentary film, or available as a download on it's own, this solo work by the longtime Ministry bassist, programmer, and co-producer is a breath of fresh air. Not to mention it features well-done collaborations with past Ministry members who were long ago estranged from the band due to tensions, egos, drug addictions, or some combination of the aforementioned. We get Barker collaborating with old friends like Ogre and Chris Connelly, plus a remix by Maynard Keenan's Puscifer, and an appearance by Barker's post-punk band, USSA. Beginning with the surprisingly commercial rock track "Victory", featuring teen actress Taylor Momsen, the album then diverts itself with "reSpite", a creepy collab with Ogre (and Skinny Puppy producer Mark Walk). "Heavy Water" is a moody and cinematic track that uses Chris Connelly's Scottish baritone to great effect, and his other track, the epic "Evangelical Sound Barrier", begs for further work from the duo. And although "Fix This!!!" ends with some less-impressive mixes and tracks using samples of Ministry's "Psalm 69", the success of the first 8 cuts are enough the recommend this strong and heavy release of post-industrial rock from one of the masters. More, please! Gigantic Pictures

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