DJ Spooky vs. Dave Lombardo Drums Of Death

• Words: Dave Segal
• Label: Thirsty Ear
• XLR8R Rating: /10

There‘s something almost too pat about Drums Of Death. The disc sounds exactly how you‘d expect a collab between DJ/theoretician Spooky and Slayer drummer Dave Lombardo to turn out. Factor in yeoman contributions from Jack Dangers (production, bass, ARP 2500), guitarists Vernon Reid and Gerry Nestler, and Chuck D (rapping on three updated Public Enemy tracks), and you have an experience similar to Bill Laswell‘s countless all-star jam sessions (especially Praxis). Lombardo displays thuggish power while also tearing off complex rhythms with frightening agility. Spooky orchestrates and scratches with authority. DOD is heavy, metallic, dubby, spacious, and ominous, yet somehow too predictable.