AGENDA – Maverick
- Posted on 06-05-2020
The German act named Agenda used to dabble in thrash and speed metal if I remember correctly, but this 5-track EP of theirs, which was released in early 2020, showcases a somewhat different sound and style in that “Maverick” leans much more towards classic heavy metal and hard rock.
There is a raw and gritty vibe to these five compositions and a solid amount of groove present on the disc too, but unfortunately, they are way too derivative and unremarkable, which primarily has to do with the vocals seeming out of place and leaving a lot to be desired and many of the riffs and melodies coming across as mundane and even half-baked. In many ways, it sounds as if these guys are inspired by Black Sabbath and Judas Priest with a few nods and references to Motörhead, Metallica, and Guns ‘N’ Roses thrown in for good measure as well, but even though there are some cool parts and good ideas present on the disc, it lacks substance and pales in comparison to so many similar releases out there today. The musicianship is solid and the crunchy production fits nicely into the frame too, but overall, “Maverick” is a rather unimaginative EP that is quickly forgotten once you have reached its end and it neither gets any better nor turns into something more memorable following repeated listens. In other words, nothing truly stands out here, which is pretty damn frustrating.