The new album from the Los Angeles noise merchants HEALTH represents their most intense and vulnerable work to date. Despite its brutality, the album also serves as their most cohesive one yet. Guests include Godflesh.
The meticulously crafted aggression in the production of RAT WARS meshes with deeply personal revelations, creating a juxtaposition of savage intensity and dark humor that somehow remains enjoyable. Sonically, the album follows in the footsteps of influential heavy acts like Nine Inch Nails and Ministry, reshaping the boundaries between metal, electronic, and pop music while resonating with the band's fervent online subculture. It might resonate particularly with those spending too much time online, perhaps experiencing a downward spiral due to isolation and lack of sunlight.
Written during a tumultuous period for HEALTH, including the challenges of the pandemic, the album builds on their chaotic yet invigorating recent years. Collaborations with artists like the aforementioned Nine Inch Nails, Lamb of God, and Poppy on their DISCO4 project have also contributed to the album's boldness.
Listeners of RAT WARS will find it traversing multiple genres, from arena rock grandeur to jittery techno and gabber-thrash, showcasing the band's versatility. With influences ranging from ‘90s goth to corrupted R&B pop, the album captures the complexity of contemporary life.
Formed in L.A.'s noise scene, HEALTH has evolved from experimental beginnings to global recognition, playing major festivals and scoring video games. Their previous albums, like DEATH MAGIC and VOL.4 :: SLAVES OF FEAR, have garnered acclaim for blending diverse influences into a unique sound. Now, with RAT WARS, HEALTH embrace their discomfort, solidifying their reputation as a band unafraid to push boundaries and challenge expectations.
Praised Kerrang!, "LA industrial geniuses HEALTH exude menacing melancholy and evident greatness on glowering fifth album.” Meanwhile, Revolver shared, “[HEALTH have] been calling their aggressive, forward-leaning sound 'noise rock' since forming in 2005, but there are vibrant elements of industrial, electronic, post-punk, metal and avant-garde... They may have started as a band toiling in underground obscurity, but the guys have seen their music travel not only far, but deeply into the lives of fans reacting to the songs of pain, frustration and understated rage."