Unitron Varga - Prototype

"Prototype" is the debut studio album by industrial/groove/thrash metal band Varga. Varga started out as a prog/technical thrash metal band with the release of their first demo, but by the the time of the release of their first studio album they had adapted a more industrial/groove sound. While not overly successful, they did achieve some popularity with the music videos of the singles 'Greed' and 'Freeze Don't Move'. The former was featured on the popular MTV show "Beavis and Butthead".

While the music is based in the aforementioned industrial/groove sound, Varga combines many different styles of metal including thrash, classic heavy metal, and even rap metal on 'Freeze Don't Move'. "Prototype" is quite a varied release, so one song may be groovy thrash and the next may be a grunge-y heavy metal track. I really enjoy all the songs on the album, but my personal favorites would be the thrashing songs like 'Unconscience', 'Thief', 'Bring the Hammer Down', 'The Strong' and the groove of 'Greed', 'Film at Eleven', and 'Freeze Don't Move'. 'Freeze Don't Move' sounds like a combination of Ministry and Stuck Mojo, and the mix fits really well together. There are some really sweet riffs on the album, and no songs showcase that better than 'Unconscience', 'Film at Eleven' and 'The Strong', the latter two's punching riffs always making me want to throw my fist in the air.

The lyrics are really strong, mostly dealing with political/social issues. Joe Varga's vocals fit the music perfectly, and his almost protest chant-like vocal delivery couldn't be placed better. His voice reminds me a bit of Sebastian Bach of Skid Row, but with more of an edge. He gives an especially great vocal performance during the chorus of 'Unconscience'.

Overall, I highly recommend this album to any fans of industrial, groove, or thrash. It's got great riffs, great vocals, and great variety. Certainly a perfect definition of an underrated classic. Hope you found this review helpful.

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