Luti-Kriss is what you get when you take a couple of talented guys who practice long, tour hard, and follow their dream. Best described as nearly-chaotic hardcore/metal full of furious riffs, thick bass, and solid beats, this band is tight. Add some obvious Deftones influences, and some emotional rapping/screaming/singing/spoken words by lead throat Josh, and you get some surprisingly good music. Songs like "Body of God" and "I Covenant I'm Yours" showcase the Deftones influences, but also show the bands tightness as a musical unit. Lyrics like this verse from "Body Of God" best describe Luti-Kriss's lyrical style:
My outstretched arms for YouThe other half of this split CD is four new songs by Travail. Despite a new guitar player and bassist, the grooves are still here, and even tighter then the ones on[ is this their last album? Their first album?] Anchor of My Soul. Travail has improved with better production, improved vocals, thicker grooves, and tighter song structure. The all-out groove of "Return" is an excellent example of what this band is capable of, and how far they've progressed. While Travail lays down some solid tracks, Luti-Kriss's 5 debut songs take the cigar. Here's to hoping both bands continue to record and improve.
My outstretched heart bleeds for You
A cry rang out, "Crucify the Lord"
and a cry saved my life, "It is finished"
This is Jesus Christ
Who came to die for you
Now sins ripped apart
He died for you.
Joe Rockstroh 9/24/99
Travail
Luti-Kriss 