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Gwar… I hadn't heard these guys in ages. My first encounter with them was a video in the late 80s/early 90s (back when music channels showed music videos.) I thought the music sucked, but I always watched the video because of the theatrical and slightly gore-ish stage antics.

Fast forward to 2009. To my amazement, Gwar are still around, and they sound nothing like what I remember from that stuff 20 years ago. Lust in Space is overall a modern Heavy Metal album with some Thrash leanings here and there.

What sets Gwar apart from other bands of the genre is how "caricatural" or even how "goofy" this stuff sounds – but then again, that's pretty much what I would expect from these guys. Whether it's the melodies or the way the vocals are sung, Lust in Space sounds like a musical version of a parody show. Personally I found that this gets old quick – i.e. this is not something I'd listen to all day, but really just when I'm in the mood. The vocals especially are sometimes a little on the annoying side, pushing the goofing-off a little too far, occasionally prompting me to hit stop and try again later. :) There are a few metalcore-ish breakdowns found here, though it's not too much of a deterrent. What can I say, older bands always fall into the trap of trying to cater at least a little to the latest trend. Those who prefer a modern sound to the old school will appreciate the fact that the music on Lust in Space sounds very "actual" – i.e. this is not an "old school riffing fest", but rather is more influenced by the newer sound of the past 8-9 years for the most part.

A quick look at the track listing reveals that this is not to be taken seriously, and the self-parody is bound to make you at least smile, if not burst out laughing a few times while listening to Lust in Space. In no way a future classic, but if you're looking for something light earthed, this is bound to fit the bill.