When you think of Willard, two words come to mind – identity crisis. You see, the band hails from Seattle, Washington – the birthplace of grunge. They emerged around 1989 – right in the middle of the 80's – 90's grunge movement. And to top it off, their debut album "Steel Mill" (1992) was produced by the legendary Jack Endino – the man responsible for Nirvana's "Bleach". And still, with everything around them screaming "grunge!", Willard managed to deliver a sound of their own, compromising between the music they were surrounded by and the music that came from their various influences… Willard was heavier than Pearl Jam, rawer than Soundgarden and definitely more aggressive than say, Mudhoney. Plus they had this whole metal thing going on about them, making the album sound like Pantera meets early Nirvana. "Steel Mill" was a real treat for fans of heavy, groove-laden music. Twelve tracks, including a cover version of Johnny Cash's "Folsom", filled with sleazy, monstrous riffs and packed with hard rockin' melodies – what else could you wish for?

The band remains a phantom from the past, one of those groups that were this close to making it big but never really got the golden ticket. Even after all these years "Steel Mill" is a fantastic listen, an album that gives a whole new perspective to the "grunge" label. Heavy and uncompromising, this re-release is sure to blow your speakers…

Tracklist:

1. Fifteen
2. Seasick
3. Sweet Kali
4. No Confession
5. Steel Mill
6. Monotony
7. Stain
8. High Moon
9. Hod
10. Double Dragon
11. Folsom
12. Water Sports

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