Description
Beuwolf – Un Sentimental – Compact Disc
Beowülf’s Un-Sentimental, released on July 13, 1993, marks a pivotal moment in the band’s evolution, showcasing a deliberate shift from their established hardcore thrash roots toward a more rock-oriented sound.
This third studio album stands out not only for its musical direction but also for being the sole official release under the abbreviated moniker BWF, reflecting the band’s transitional phase during the early 1990s.
The recording sessions for Un-Sentimental took place between 1992 and 1993 at Eldorado Recording Studios in Hollywood, California, with D.C. Herring at the production helm.
The album spans approximately 47 minutes, encompassing genres such as alternative metal, hardcore punk, and crossover thrash. This genre-blending approach mirrors the broader musical landscape of the early ’90s, a period marked by the ascendancy of grunge and alternative rock.
A significant aspect of Un-Sentimental is the lineup change, with Dale Henderson, the band’s founder and primary songwriter, being the only original member involved in this project.
The absence of original members Mike Jensen (guitar), Paul Yamada (bass), and Michael Alvarado (drums)—who declined invitations to reunite—led to the recruitment of new musicians: Clint Schuyler on guitar, Kevin Sullivan on bass, and Rich Rowan on drums. This new ensemble contributed to the album’s distinct sound, which diverged from Beowülf’s earlier, more aggressive style.
The tracklist of Un-Sentimental comprises 12 songs, each contributing to the album’s thematic and sonic diversity:
‘Cast Away’ – 2:30
‘Uplifted’ – 4:56
‘Un-Sentimental’ – 3:57
‘Victim of Riches’ – 1:27
‘P.O.W. (Pissed Off White Boy)’ – 5:02
‘Articles’ – 6:07
‘Special One’ – 3:09
‘Last Days’ – 5:13
‘Hole in My Pocket’ – 3:49
‘Said a Prayer’ – 4:28
‘Wish Your Life’ – 6:23
‘Ain’t No Place Like Home’ – 3:17
Among these, ‘P.O.W. (Pissed Off White Boy)’ garnered particular attention, with a music video produced to promote the track.
The liner notes clarify that the song is ‘in no way meant as a disrespect to the many homies who were and are prisoners of war,’ indicating the band’s awareness of potential misinterpretations and their intent to address sensitive topics thoughtfully.
Despite the band’s efforts to innovate and adapt to the changing musical climate, Un-Sentimental received a lukewarm reception from critics and fans alike. Many purists viewed the album as a departure from Beowülf’s authentic sound, considering it more of a Dale Henderson solo project rather than a true Beowülf record.
This perception was influenced by the significant lineup changes and the stylistic shift toward a more rock-centric approach.
Reflecting on Un-Sentimental, it stands as a testament to Beowülf’s willingness to experiment and evolve, even at the risk of alienating a portion of their fanbase. The album captures a moment of transition, both for the band and the broader music scene of the early 1990s, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities that come with artistic growth and change.
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Restless Records 1993
Track Listing
cast away
up lifted
unsentimental
victim of riches
POW
article
special one
last days
hole in my pocket
said a prayer
wish your life
aint no place like home
