By Keith Walsh
Southern California’s Christian Death have been rocking their brand of Gothic art punk since the late 70s. There have been numerous personnel changes, but it’s safe to say that the current lineup holds true to the band’s roots. The new single “Blood Moon,” from their upcoming album Evil Becomes Rule, features all of the dark mystery of earlier tracks.

Walls of guitars and pounding drums in the choruses, with  and laid back  verses, along with solid songwriting make “Blood Moon” a memorable track. Punk at its best doesn’t abandon melody – and there’s plenty of melody here, from the vocal tracks to a sweetly sustained lead guitar that betrays some of the band’s long standing adoration of David Bowie’s music.

The charisma of vocalist and guitarist Valor Kand, who took over way back in 1986, shines through, as does Maitri, who lends bass support and haunting soprano vocals in the choruses. Drummer Jason Frantz doesn’t push the beat; the song is a mid-tempo slowburn that veers close to mainstream rock territory.

The band’s lovely cover of Bowie’s “Quicksand” from 1971’s Hunky Dory is worthy of a share. The lush arrangement shows that Christian Death has depth enough to traverse from hard rock through moody Goth to classy ballads.

Looking forward to hearing the album, Evil Becomes Rule, which releases on May 6, on Season Of Mist Records. Christian Death will tour North America in support of the release.

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