HEAVENLY TRIP TO HELL “Pumpkin Man”

Self-released, 2022

Music: Industrial Metal
Website: https://heavenlytriptohell.godaddysites.com/
Duration: 16:00 (4 tracks)
Country: U.S.A

If you like Rammstein, Sepultura, Lordi, and Marilyn Manson, it is hard to miss Heavenly Trip to Hell. Though HHTH may be a bit heavier than Marilyn, the style they play is pretty close to that perfect mix of Classic Rock and Industrial Metal. As much as I try to avoid the genre distinction – especially when it comes to Industrial Metal bands, it is important to point out that HHTH is one of the very few bands that I will fit into my “Industrial Metal” category. Not because of the synthesizers, but how they play the guitar diligently over those eerie electronics in the background. The newly released 4 track EP is the epitome of that.

“Pumpkin Man” released in January was a surprise listen to me. After reading that they were influenced by Sepultura and Ministry, I wanted to give it a try, because I’m a huge fan of Ministry! The album starts with the title track, which sets the stage for the rest of the album. Instantly added the song to my Gym-playlist. The highlight is the short-lived breakdown buildup that then progresses into a quick double bass heavy showdown coupled with a perfectly executed scream. Solid start to the album, and no doubt it will keep the listeners hooked for the remaining 3 tracks.

Though “Pumpkin Man” really pumped my excitement, it was the “Vivid Dreams” that appealed to me the most. The chorus is very catchy, and you won’t even notice singing along to the anthemic “Heavenly Trip to Hell” lines! In terms of instrumentation, the song is one of the best, but the very reason for me to put this track above the rest is mainly the deliverance! One thing to note about HHTH is its lyricism. While rock and roll are all about drugs, that posh life, HHTH wanted to bring a change. The EP is written while keeping the real stories and struggles in mind – reminding everyone that not all that glitters is gold.

Not sure if it’s me, but when listened to it on repeat I started noticing some elements of Metallic Hardcore – one of the genres that I closely monitor. The mid-tempo breaking down of riffs in the middle of the track, and swiftly paced guitar riffs towards the end of tracks – all point to Metallic Hardcore.

Overall, “Pumpkin Man” is a perfect album that encompasses the sound of HHTH. There are talks that the band is in the process of breaking into the mainstream and finding a perfect label. I am pretty sure that this is the material that’ll help them achieve it.

Tracklist:

1. Pumpkin Man
2. Vivid Dreams
3. Systematic
4. Arturo Huizar

Line-up:

Gerardo Christ – vocals
Sergio Natas – bass
Vicky Vicious – synth keyboards
Kurt Thompson – guitar
Jose Soto – drums.