Description

Optimum Wound Profile – Lowest Common Dominator – Cassette

Lowest Common Dominator is an album by the British industrial metal band Optimum Wound Profile, released in 1992. Optimum Wound Profile (often abbreviated as OWP) is known for their aggressive blend of industrial, metal, and punk elements, characterized by heavy guitars, abrasive electronics, and politically charged lyrics.

The album features a mix of industrial and metal, with heavy guitar riffs, electronic elements, and a harsh, aggressive sound. There are strong punk influences in the music, evident in the raw energy, fast tempos, and confrontational lyrics.

Track Highlights:

‘Drain’: An aggressive opener that sets the tone for the album with its heavy riffs, pounding drums, and intense vocals.
‘Tranqhead’: A track that combines industrial beats with metal guitar work, showcasing the band’s ability to blend genres seamlessly.
‘Downmouth’: Known for its politically charged lyrics and driving rhythm, reflecting the band’s socio-political commentary.
‘Damage’: Features a blend of electronic noise and heavy instrumentation, creating a chaotic yet controlled sound.
‘Responsibility’: A standout track with a mix of melodic and abrasive elements, highlighting the band’s versatility.

The lyrics often address political and social issues, reflecting the band’s critical perspective on topics like war, corruption, and societal decay. Themes of anger, rebellion, and resistance are prevalent throughout the album, delivered with a sense of urgency and defiance.

The production emphasizes a harsh, abrasive sound, with distorted guitars, aggressive vocals, and industrial noise elements. The album features dynamic arrangements that balance heavy, guitar-driven sections with electronic and experimental sounds.

Lowest Common Dominator has garnered a cult following among fans of industrial metal and punk, appreciated for its raw intensity and socio-political themes. The album received positive reviews for its powerful blend of genres and its uncompromising, politically charged lyrics.

Lowest Common Dominator by Optimum Wound Profile is a significant release in the industrial metal genre, showcasing the band’s ability to blend heavy metal and industrial elements with punk energy and political commentary. The album’s aggressive sound, combined with its socio-political themes, makes it a standout in the early 1990s industrial scene. Tracks like ‘Pure’ and ‘Silver or Lead’ highlight the band’s talent for creating intense, thought-provoking music.

Lowest Common Dominator is an essential listen for fans of industrial metal and punk, reflecting Optimum Wound Profile’s unique blend of genres and their commitment to addressing socio-political issues through music. The album’s raw energy, abrasive sound, and powerful lyrics offer a compelling and intense listening experience, cementing its place in the legacy of industrial and metal music. For those interested in exploring the darker, more confrontational side of industrial metal, Lowest Common Dominator is a definitive and impactful album.

Roadrunner Records

Song List
1. Drain
2. Tranqhead
3. Ego Crotch
4. Downmouth
5. You’re Weak – (demo version)
6. Blindfold
7. Incision
8. Responsibility
9. Skin
10. Melt
11. Damage
12. Crave – (full-length version)
13. Core Melt – (intro)