Grimskunk, Seventh Wave Grimskunk Plays…Fatal Illness

By Sara Grawbarger

The ‘monster villains’ of the more recent track, “Super Heroes Never Die,” may not be as dark as the orc army of “Lord Ogre.” However, they prove that Grimskunk have kept their imagination through their years as a band.

This imagination might have a lot to do with the band’s enduring success. When comparing Grimskunk Plays…Fatal Illness, a revisitation to the band’s ’80s-hardcore roots, to Grimskunk’s seventh album, Seventh Wave, the versatility of the band becomes obvious.

Originating from Montreal, Grimskunk formed from some of the members of a previous band, Fatal Illness, and began playing in 1989. They bring 18 Fatal Illness songs to a new audience with Grimskunk Plays…Fatal Illness. Having influences like Misfits and Minor Threat, the Fatal Illness tracks are hardcore/punk, with twists, like the organ arrangement on "Rooftop Killer."

It is the subject matter which is the most astounding aspect of Fatal Illness’ music. The lyrics express the band’s opinion on matters such as nuclear warfare, racism and posers. In comparison, there are songs like "Rick Loves His Window," about the fun you can have with a car window while intoxicated. To compliment all this are songs fitting into the category of ‘horror punk,’ containing evil characters.

Seventh Wave is less likely to create facial expressions of mixed surprise and delight, however, it does retain some of the best qualities of the original music. Lyrics with a message is one such quality. Grimskunk comments on issues like idealism, retribution and superficiality. The sound is more rock than punk on this album, but it maintains a sense of the unexpected. The band mixes genres to satisfy their eclectic taste. Plus, they have somehow perpetuated the spooky tone of the Fatal Illness songs. For any hardcore, punk, or rock fans who haven’t experienced Grimskunk, these records would be an interesting addition to your musical library.