Olympia, Washington’s Wide Eye Panic have released their latest album by the name of Modus Operandi. The term “modus operandi” means “a method of operating or functioning” in Latin, but loosely translated, it means the way a person typically does something. So, will the band’s way of doing things pay off, or will it send them back to the drawing board?

Raising the curtain to this twisted thrill ride is “Undermine.” What can I say, other than grooves, grooves, and more grooves. Once the guitars, bass and drums kick in, your mind goes into total sensory overload. If you were to check out the ingredients on how to create Wide Eye Panic’s fat-bottomed sound, it would probably read as follows: 1/3 cup of One Minute Silence, 1/3 cup of Nonpoint, and 1/3 cup of Factory 81. Sprinkle in some Tool and a dash of Boy Hits Car, and bake for 45 minutes at 1000 degrees. What you get is one big, bad ass, energetic, full throttle experience. Aram Wheeler’s vocals are a mad scientist’s blend of all the frontmen from the aforementioned bands – to a tee. The amount of energy this guy projects is insane and plain ridiculous.

“Question B9″ is absolutely off the charts with its energetic wide open runs and background screams. Randy Bebich and Karl Penn’s axe work is incredible to say the least. The one-two punch from these guy is top notch, while bassist Mark Mauer’s funky overtones and skinsman Andrew Kuhn’s skills really shine. Wheeler’s vocal runs are outstanding and almost borderline schizophrenic. The choruses are open, catchy, and very memorable.

If you want to add some serious crunch in your life, check out “Dear Tom.” Wheeler begins the track with a brutal scream that is immediately followed by ripping, in-your-face six strings. While I really wasn’t into the talking style verses, it does fit perfectly in the context of the track. Another thing I can tell you is that this kid has some serious pipes, along with an incredible vocal range.

Taking a page from the Nonpoint catalog come tracks like “Dmc” and “Chauncey.” From the tribal openings, bouncy six strings and mystic Egyptian style verses, you may never know it’s not Elias and company at the wheel. “Chauncey” comes out the gate beating you like a redheaded stepchild. You will find yourself bobbin’ that noggin’ back and forth through the entirety of the song because its bounce never really lets up.

All in all, I can tell you that this album is anything but standard or run of the mill. Besides a few hiccups here and there, Wide Eye Panic take the listener on one hell of a joyride. One thing is for certain, these Washingtonians bring an energy to disc like I haven’t heard in a long time. Modus Operandi is an album that will leave you feeling beaten, battered and bruised beyond belief.

4.0/5