KRASHKRAMA latest offering “Straight To The Blood” originally released in 2010 on the indie label Fastball Music gained major attention and as the CD picked up steam, they were signed by EMI/Sony Music and their major label debut hit the market on October 4, 2011. The band formerly known as SUICIDE HOLIDAY garnered interest since Ralf Dietel had a short stint with NINE INCH NAILS on guitar.

I have been listening to “Straight To The Blood” for some time now and I’m excited about it. The emotion put forward by KRASHKARMA is astounding. This is the kind of band that gives depth to music; not a laid back make me some bucks effort. When vocalist Ralf Dietel steps to the microphone I can feel the veins popping from his neck as his emotions take over.

The opening track “Last Wish” had my first thoughts of the JEFFERSON STARSHIP song “Jane” but the power takes over and there are so many twists and turns that make this song explode. You get the pure power of Dietel with the female background vocals by Nicole Skistimas and it makes for a perfect mixture; this song will pummel your senses.

The rawness breaks through on “9 Lives (1, 2, Die)” as Nic Nifoussi’s bass lines shows presence and the adrenaline rush pushes the track over the top. It’s got a great chorus too that makes the song a breakout track. It has a touch of New York’s CARNIVAL OF SOULS to it too.

Just listening to this CD will blow you away with the catchy lyrics and the overpowering music. KRASHKARMA will shine as they climb the ladder to success. You will get a phenomenal array of sounds and influences from ALICE COOPER, Brian Head Welch, RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE, JEFFERSON STARSHIP to CINDERELLA. Now that’s what I’m talking about!

Talk about a classic tune check out “Tears Of Gasoline”. I could see CINDERELLA’s Tom Keifer singing this one. This is such an exceptional power ballad that it will burn it up.

“No Regrets” for me is possibly the most explosive track on the disc. The song starts off with Nicole Skistimassoft’s soft vocals giving way to the heavier vocals of Ralf Dietel. The lyrics and the masterful music is way above the norm here. Lead guitarist Elias Tannous shines on this song. The track is so diverse with elements of KORN.

With a soft sensitive side to KRASHKARMA “Anytime” delivers a melodic style ballad. The track is a big change from the rest of the disc but I like it. Rolling drums, some keys and the arrangement is amazing. And “Comeback” has a taste of RAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE through and through; dominant commanding vocals by Dietel with ripping music to accompany him.

Ending the disc is “The Void” as Nicole Skistimas takes over the lead vocal spotlight and lead guitarist Elias Tannous shines once again. The track is so uplifting and powerful it can only take KRASHKRAMA to another level.

I can’t say enough about KRASHKRAMA “Straight To The Blood” is a record that blew me away with its diversity, power and emotion.