Idle Hands is an American-Mexican trio that has emerged out of nowhere and conquered the gothic metal throne with this absolutely outstanding debut extended play Don't Waste Your Time and the equally stunning debut full length Mana. 

The key element that makes this band stand out is its talent to evoke thoughtful, spooky and melancholy atmosphere. The melodic, haunting and dreamy guitar play by Sebastian Silva is completely unique and is inspired by numerous different genres from psychedelic rock to horror punk. The Mexican guitarist took the best elements from these different genres and merged them into his very own distinctive style right from the start of his band's career. 

Gabriel Franco has three roles on this output. He plays rhythm guitar which complements the melodic lead guitar very well and situates the band's style on the thin line between gothic rock and gothic metal. He also plays bass that adds gloomy, meandering and sinister vibes that are so important in this genre. Most importantly, he performs absolutely outstanding vocals. Even though he has a smooth lower register, he sings with genuine passion as he even adds a few higher vocals and occasional shouts. This versatile yet unique singer is indeed in full control of his charismatic vocals.

Colin Vranizan plays drums on this output and contrasts the melodic skills of his partners with his skilled feeling for appropriate pace. The drums slow down when beautiful guitar harmonies and catchy choruses unfold. They get faster to provide boosts of energy in opening sequences and verses. Just as the vocals, guitar and bass, the drums find the right balance between rock stylistics and metal grit.

Another element that needs to be pointed out is the songwriting. In times when many musicians believe they are actually composers and must deliver conceptual outputs with songs cracking the ten-minute mark, Idle Hands goes back to the basics in refreshing fashion. The songs are less than four minutes long on average, have coherent structures and convince with incredibly catchy guitar harmonies and beautiful choruses. Some people might think that catchy songs are bland and rather appropriate for pop bands. That isn't the case at all since writing catchy tracks requires a lot of talent, feeling and empathy and especially the last two elements are essential parts for all forms of gothic music. Idle Hands' members might be newcomers but they already have truly impressive veteran skills in that regard.

In the end, listening to Idle Hands should be mandatory for anyone who likes or sympathizes with gothic rock and metal music. Don't Waste Your Time is appropriately titled as its five songs get straight to the point and will touch your brain, heart and soul instantly. These timeless songs have the potential to become cult classics one day. If you celebrate Halloween as if it were Christmas, this should be your soundtrack to celebrate witching hour.

Final rating: 95%

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Something different!

Chinese cult actress Bai Ling is known for her great movies such as ''The Crow'' (1994), ''Red Corner'' (1997), ''Wild Wild West'' (1999), ''Sky Captain and the World of Tomorrow'' (2004) and ''The Gene Generation'' (2007). She is also infamous for her trouble with law enforcement, substance abuse and extravagant dressing style. I have now discovered that the quirky artist has also released some music and the final result is just as bizarre as you might expect: give it a try! 

My childhood hero finally gets the box set it deserves!

Visit Criterion's website for more information: https://www.criterion.com/boxsets/2648-godzilla-the-showa-era-films-1954-1975