by Doug StoneUnclean is the second release from Rorschach Test. Vocalist James Baker founded this potent post-industrial combo in Denver, but it was a fortuitous meeting with programmer/keyboardist Troee Keer in Seattle that would lead to the independent debut, The Eleventh. Producer eil Kernon (Judas Priest/Queensryche/Helix) was impressed, and manned the boards for Unclean. Each cut here coveys a distinctly vicious vibe; Though the notorious AIDS update of Berlin's once-controversial "Sex" stands out, the unfortunate "Blow up America" packs a more violent musical punch. Of course, these lyrics are a different story altogether, as both Baker and Troee fight festering flashbacks of a monastic childhood. Rorschach Test has a knack for aural assault "Wheel of Misfortune" and getting into the head of the guy down-under (&"Satan"); "Song for the Other Me" and "Lament" throw a bit of variety into the electro-brew, the latter detailing the ultimate fall from grace. But Rorschach Test arrives late to the party, as nothing's shocking in the new millennium and distortion has become passé. Ministry perfected this cross-pollination vein, White Zombie kicked it over the top, and Filter filters it to the masses. Talent defiantly lurks beneath these trappings, however, and fans of this particular strain of strident purification and pain will find something to cling to on Unclean. Originally released on the now-defunct Slipdisc in 1996, E-Magine Entertainment rereleased Unclean in April of 2000.