Destroy All Codes

Destroy All Codes, the fifth-album from Toronto-based groove collective King Cobb Steelie, finds the group more focused than ever on their instrumentals. Frontman Kevan Byrne has forsaken his vocal duties altogether, which may be a blessing to those who found his singing to be too Corgan-esque. Out of 11 tracks, only one features vocals. The female singer’s sultry vocals on 'Hello Everything,' coupled with brooding bass, evoke a Portishead vibe to the track. Meanwhile, newcomer Geoff Walton joins Byrne, Kevin Lynn, Mike Armstrong and Sam Cino in laying down a series of serious groove-fuelled excursions. Unlike previous efforts, loops, atmospheric noises and extended jams are kept to a minimum, likely due to the absence of original member Al Okada. After several teasing forays into mainstream success, King Cobb Steelie have reverted to their anti-commercial, all-about-the-music roots — with mixed results. ~Andy Lee, chartattack