Escape From Cape Coma

Escape from Cape Coma is the debut of Twisted Method, a young Florida quartet determined to carve out a nu-metal niche of its own. But rather than finding its own perch, the band might be better off renting a backroom from some existing talent in the genre. Little of its introductory effort is discernible from any number of other groups; if anything, Cape Coma simply reaffirms the status quo. Lyrically, the album revolves around the F word. This isn't a plea for protection of our children's virgin ears; rather, Twisted Method should be kicked in the shins for diluting the invective's power with its constant place-holding utterances. Heavily treated production, animalistic screams, and incessant, pounding, grating rhythms broken only by the occasional attempt at Linkin Park-style balladry ("Awkward Silence," the blatant"Shine") finish out the samey rock equation. Love Slipknot? Miss Drowning Pool? Escape from Cape Coma is for you. As the story goes, MCA signed Twisted Method on the strength of the band's showcase alone, and without even a demo tape, the boys found themselves in an L.A. studio recording their debut. If it's even partially true, the story promises a strong set from the band at Ozzfest. But it also makes the possibility that the Method's been molded that much more plausible. Tracks like"Panic,""Reach," and"Inside Out" are certainly full of rage, and should offer loud rock fans some cheap headbanging thrills. But does that rage resonate when the band's individual and group thank-yous take up two full pages of the lyric book, alongside props to the hair, makeup, and styling crew?