Bishop is:
Tommy - Vocals and Lead Guitar
Dan Castle - Guitars
The Root - Drums
Buca - Bass

I asked for the hardest rocking local band available at Peacock Records.

We looked over the selection for a few minutes. I wanted something loud, something hard, and something good.

"What about Bishop?" I said, pointing up towards their release, "Centipede."

It was agreed that if I wanted rock, Bishop would be the way to go.

Located out of Albany and parts of Upstate New York, Bishop is a local throwback to the melodic sounds of metal while keeping modern to appeal to the changing tastes. No rapping. No mixing. Solid drumming, guitar parts, and vocals make Bishop.

The drumming by The Root is amazingly tight -- more than I had expected. It goes well with the harmony of Tommy's voice and both guitars. Even the Bass, often tuned down and growling, solidifies the band into a enjoyable listen.

A powerful opening with "Get Me Down," the album progresses with pounding aggression. High points include "83," a song too soft to be death and too hard to be love, and "Space Rocker," a thrill ride.

If Bishop faces any problem, it's that of sounding too solid. There isn't much risk taken with this album, but as a debut, it indicates that the band is capable of doing something more. The feeling around the musical progression of "83" lets the listener know that these guys are a product of a time where melody was key. Risks need to be taken on the next album. But these guys don't seem to be afraid.

Bishop leaves a good first impression. Keep an eye on them. They show great potential.

Three Danzigs out of Five

 

 

BISHOP, their music, and merchandise can be found here. Check it out. See the pictures. Check the reviews. Know Bishop. Love them. They love you.