Reviews
“Industrial tinged power metal with superb female
vocals. I love this chick’s style! At a time when most female leads sound like a
growling dog with a towel in its mouth or goth clone, DM can be smooth or
scathing when needed.”
- Maximum Metal
“This reminded me a lot of the sadly missed Sapphic Ode. Great original music with some awesome female vocals.
The band play metal with a industrial, weird edge that is hard to explain. The vocals are great, this girl has a hot voice
and can belt out the tunes. The production is on the money and I could see this band easily getting a deal and
selling lots of records.”
- Metal Core Fanzine
“From the first track to the last, this is the closest thing you can get to being at a really scary horror flick.
A mix of heavy guitars, raunchy bass, pounding drums and ominous vocals creep deep inside your skin, don't listen to
this one before you go to sleep. The overall sound is a very industrial gothic nightmare, opening with ‘Broken’ and bringing you to the end of all
life with an excellent cover of Ministry’s ‘Scarecrow’. ‘Scary Kitty’ begins with an eerie feeling of being locked away, then pulses in your chest as the vocals
rip through every fiber of hair on your body. If your life has been missing some great new gothic, industrial music you will want to add
this CD to your collection...”
- Female Musicians Online
“More than just a female-led goth band, the missing: meshes elements of
traditional power, industrial and goth into a dark ambiance of mood that eases
you comfortably into solace until potent lead vocalist, DM--confident and sure
as a cat, scratches the hell out of you, licks the bleeding wounds and sends you
off to be battered some more. DM's vocals are great mix of Anneke Van
Giersbergen's smoothness, the coarse confidence of Courtney Love and oddly
enough the delivery (and some pitch) of old Metal Church singer Mike Howe. When
the lyrics or mood call for ease or the need is for irritation, she's spot on.
“broken” starts the CD out and I'm quickly reminded of the progressive
works of Tool with the prominent bass and rhythm section at the forefront. It
pulls you in with tense thematics that put it a step above your average
hook-leaden song.
“scary kittie” is a cat-and-mouse game stalking
across the fine line of S&M poetry and cheesiness. Feline sound effects
would've been too much, but a guitar tone reminiscent of Megadeth and the best
thrash bands gives this one enough heft to counter the more Euro-industrial
keyboards. The plundering guitars and DM's ethereal vocals in
“belief”
transport you into a giant's dream. Her voice carries you away on an exotic trip
high above the carnage as the rest of the band menaces the land below.
“in
two” may be the best song representative of the band with every element
present--abrasion, softness, anger and madness. It's the
half-loving/half-unhinged mate from Hell that is sweet one minute and screaming
at you the next. Everything sounds very consistent until the final track
“scarecrow”, which was originally done by Ministry. The guitars sound
way more raw and dirty than the prior four numbers, but it's still a good song
and a great trance-inducer.
the missing: is definitely a unique and talented band, and their CD bLEEd is
both scathing and beautiful. With five great songs this one is highly
recommended!”
- Maximum Metal
“They hit like a freight train one minute, and envelope their listeners
in dark, subtle atmosphere the next. It’s a musical wire act few bands
can even attempt, much less pull off, but the missing: make it look
easy. Thick rhythms support bombastic guitar, while DM’s vocals dish out
equal doses of vulnerable emotion and merciless punishment. Heavy metal — or
its fans — have never had it this good.”
– Brian Stillman, Managing Editor,
Revolver Magazine
“It’s always hard to give a review on only 3 songs (one of which is a
cover) but that’s never stopped me before, so here we go. The Missing (great
name) are from NYC, we have two guys, and two gals. On drums we have the just
recruited Patrick Swift (formally of “Frail”), on guitar it’s “JJB” then we
have Laurie on bass, and the ebony-maned Goth/Metal goddess “DM” on vocals. Yes
boys and girls, she is every black-leather-clad, Crow-worshipping, Industrial /
Goth boy’s (and some girl’s) wet dream. But when you hear her sing, your dick is
gonna shrivel to the size of a peanut in fear. Her vocals sound like an unholy
combination of Davey Havok (AFI), Dawn Crosby (Detente / Fear Of God) and
Tairrie B. (Manhole / Tura Satana / My Ruin). This is only the band’s second
offering to the world, they have a previous four-song EP out from 1998 called
“Poor Dolly”, which also features the song “Scary Kitty” found here, plus three
other tunes. Along with Scary Kitty, the other original on this demo is
“Boogeyman”. These two songs are bizarre to say the least. Depending on what 5
second portion you want to analyze, you can find comparisons to almost every
creepy-ass band on the planet; Ministry, My Ruin, NIN, Marilyn Manson, Skinny
Puppy...I could just go on pulling comparative band names out of my ass, but
it’s gonna start getting silly. The songs are pretty jarring on the first spin,
taking you in multiple directions all seemingly at the same time, but after a
couple listens, you start to see the method behind the madness. The third song
is a cover of Ministry’s “Scarecrow”. This is simply a brilliant, creepy
sounding cover, and will soon be released as part of a tribute disc. The Missing
will basically appeal to fans ranging from those that love Horror-Punk, to the
harder side of Goth-Rock, and to those that like creepy, Industrial-tinged
Metal.”
– Urotsukidoji's Pad
“Back to NYC with this female-fronted band that fuses old school Metal with Industrial/Darkwave
and a bit of Techno. Sort of like Braindance on speed but I can make this a bit more descriptive of
the 3 songs I have including a cover of Ministry’s “Scarecrow.” DM sounds like a
cross between Doro Pesch and the chick from 45 Grave as far as vocals and the
music is just raw power. Tool, Ministry, old Hardcore stuff maybe like the
Tramps and L7 with a blend of Metallica, Slayer, Megadeth for good measure and
then all the Goth/Darkwave elements and DM’s shrillwork vocally. She fits
perfectly into this band as well as the music. I need more songs as I’m having
withdrawal problems at the moment.”
– Quintessence Metal Webzine
"The cd that I have chosen to review today is entitled “Poor Dolly”. A four
song EP, that in my opinion blows the pants off most full length releases being
pushed on us today by that corporate machine known as the music industry. The
first track is “Scary Kitty” coming at almost five minutes long, this song is
all about the vocals and industrial drum loops. Vocalist DM goes completely off
the deep end in this track. Screaming a little then a little tenderness just
long enough for a meow! Miss DM has a set of pipes - that’s for damn sure. The
guitars on this song are plenty strong, too. The guitarist is a fuckin’ riff
monster! The bassist is quite gifted as well, and because of this the backbeat of
the songs are kept well in time. “Dying Room” is the second track and probably
my standout track off the album. Maybe it’s because I am infatuated with the
darker side of life? The one thing I do know is that DM's voice sounds painfully
angelic as she belts out these lyrics...It seems as though lead vocalist DM has
had a lot of pain, or either she enjoys writing about it, whatever it is it works
damn good for this band!
Do yourself a favor and pick up this cd! You won't regret it! Also, be on the
lookout for an upcoming Ministry tribute in which The Missing will contribute
the song "Scarecrow". Simply dazzling! I cannot wait for more releases from this
band. More rage, more darkness from one of the best out there! What could be any
better??"
– Black Angel Promotions
"DM is the chick in charge for NYC metal band The Missing. With aggressive
vocals and looks that could kill, DM will captivate you and make you wonder why
you haven't experienced this band before. As one of the few female fronted acts
in the scene, The Missing is one band that deserves more exposure. Any loyal fan
will tell you that no one rocks as hard as this bunch and to hear them, is to
love them. Their 4 song EP Poor Dolly is the kind you keep in constant
rotation on your cd player. DM also has an awesome MP3 radio station called Who
You Callin' A Bitch? that showcases equally talented female fronted bands.
Absolutely worth checking out, DM and the band will leave you begging for
more."
– Gothic Vixen
"It is virtually impossible for me to comprehend anyone not liking...not
LOVING, this band. THE MISSING hails from NYC and is fronted by the lovely and
talented DM. DM's beauty is what will first catch you, but it is her voice that
will blow you away! Powerful and intoxicating, her vocals command the respect
she deserves as a female artist. This heavy metal sensation is one worth
checking out."
– Bleeding Minds, Featured Band
Issue #6
"Excellent Female fronted industrial metal that defines the music of the
next millennium. Very aggressive and well done. You must hear this band!"
– Industrial Symphonies
"Hard, fast, incredibly talented female vocals fronts hard-edged industrial
music...takes industrial music to the metal edge of the spectrum, and keeps you
begging for more."
– Industrial Zoning
"Rarely does a band come along where the sound fits the look, and with a
band such as the missing:, that is a necessity. The music is harsh and abrasive,
but also has the potential for a soothing sound. As do the female vocals; sultry
and sadistic, evil and erotic. the missing: is a band that will undoubtedly make
quite a name for themselves, and may even attain stardom. Let us just sit back
and join them for the ride."
– Windowpain
"When was the last time a band really blew you away. I mean literally made
your spine tingle from the pure pleasure of it? Poor Dolly by the missing: did
exactly that to me and more. Fronted by powerful female vocals provided by DM,
this NYC area band manages to entice, delight and electrify all who listen. DM's
aggressive vocals could put any male fronted band to shame. The boys backing up
DM on bass, guitar and drums hold their own with a seemingly endless support of
pounding drum beats and heavy riffs that perfectly compliment the lyrics. This
band is simply amazing and it's safe to say, I have found a new musical
obsession. I could only imagine the sort of intensity that occurs at their live
shows. If you haven't already, I strongly suggest you find a way to get your
hands on a copy of Poor Dolly. The only problem with this release is that it is
a four track EP which means by the time it is done, you are left begging for
more...there is an easy solution though, just listen to it all over again, and
again, and again..."
– Bleeding Minds
"Strong, loud and musik that can definitely engage a crowd! CALLING ALL
CRISIS FANS, YOU WILL LOVE THIS!! It has strong rhythm, and tight and talented
musicianship. These fiendz incorporate many elements into their music:
"Lead Into Gold" adds a more electronic feel to it, almost bordering
into the industrial music realm...danceable too. "Justice" was a mix
of metal/punk styles. Excellent!!! And GREAT lyrics...I also received a 2-song
tape from these ghouls showing their consistency, onslaught and determination.
This band has a lot going for them. Attitude Metal; try to get your hands on
this!"
– Endemoniada Issue #13
"Thrashing guitars, heavy drum/synthesized beats, throbbing bass lines and
a lead singer who can swoon from sweet to sinister in a matter of seconds. These
components are what make up female fronted heavy metal band the missing:'s
recently released EP, Poor Dolly. Although this is only an EP, it will leave you
stunned. Lead singer DM's vocals captivate and shock you...A song that really
stands out on Poor Dolly is 'Lead into Gold.' This song is a perfect example of
the sweet to sinister vocals of DM. The verses are a little on the strong but
feminine side until you reach the chorus, which sounds more like a demon singing
than a woman...At first glance of this EP you right away think: 'Oh Great,
another angry chick band wanting to be heard.' However after listening to it you
realize that the missing: aren't out there just to scream, they have message and
meaning in their music.."
– estrogen music
"the missing: restrain nothing from their audience, letting loose with an
intense bombast of high energy riffs that generate spooky melodies. Female
vocals spit bloody words that are at once mesmerizing and frightening."
– listen.com
"This act is a hard one to top. the missing: are one excellent
unit...anyone into metal, goth, rock and theatrical flair will seriously get
into the missing:. The pleasure was mine."
– Steppin' Out Magazine
"This is a dark sound that spells rage...and I would say it definitely has
a sadomasochistic charm to it. Judging from the press photo and the scathing
vocals, this girl could easily kick my ass..."
– More Sugar Entertainment
"Dark, heavy, pure, and with an intensity that hits you right in the
face...this band is really worth checking out..."
– Metal Maidens
"Rawness and energy that reaches right into your soul and rips out your
heart...dm has such a piercing screech but also exercises self-control with her
range...one could not help but think what a perfect group of musicians. Each
adds individuality and this somehow melts perfectly into loud, oozing,
teeth-kicking music..."
– Dig This Reel
"This band doesn't waste time attacking you with their fierce brand of
industrial/metal. Lead vocalist dm has rage in her vocals that is both powerful
and well-directed. dm accentuates the lyrics in the right places, sometimes
whispering, other times screaming with a ferocity that puts any man in his
place."
– Modern Musician Monthly
"First class electro-goth with heavy guitars that speak of great things for
this talented band. The lead singer is a vicious goth diva, angry and ready to
take on the world with a dramatic vocal tone that can go from painfully melodic
to completely sinister in the blink of an eye - check out "Dying Room"
for an example of the haunting moodiness that she can so capably conjure. Backed
by the tight rhythms of a live drummer and plenty of heavy guitar riffs, this
band has a distinctive sound and seems to be doing everything right. At four
songs, this is a brief but very effective listen, for it does its job of
whetting my tastebuds in anticipation of a full-length release from the
missing:."
– Chaotic Critiques e-zine Issue #11
"Four fistfuls of feminine rage, coiled and hammering. Hole comes to mind,
and that great Diamanda Galas/John Paul Jones album, but the missing: are strong
enough to fight off any comparisons. Such delightful subjects as stalkers,
domestic violence, irredeemable scum and China's one-child policy are tackled
with force and fury."
– Jim Santos' Demo Universe
"Poor Dolly is a great-sounding album that offers four strong tracks with
wailing guitar licks throughout. This is head-banging music at its best. A few
songs seem to address a personal vendetta as well as a national crisis: domestic
abuse. One notable track, "Justice," deals with the problem head-on: 'So this is how you think a man's supposed to act?/You beat on women 'cause we
don't hit back.' But DM, the lead vocalist, does hit back. Her rich voice emotes
not only venom but an appealing theatrical quality...these psychologically dark
waters have been explored many times before...but nobody rages about these
subjects like a pissed-off woman..."
– The Westchester Weekly
"the missing: fuse Marilyn Manson stylized buzzsaw guitar riffs, bombastic
bass and demon drumming, forming the foundations for the banshee-like wailing of
vocalist dm...a lot of creativity and good ideas have gone into this...on the
Portrait Of A Downward Spiraling Sioux Filthpig Antichrist Scale, I'd have to
give it a 'Recommended'..."
– The Aquarian
"One of the few EPs that has the ability to kick you right between the eyes
on the first listen. dm's vocals bore through a mélange of angry guitar and
bass. the missing:'s style is a hybrid, featuring the dominatrixy singer's
growling, howling and purring, husky hard-rock bass/lead guitar, and live
drums...a local band worth checking out live..."
– Scrawl Magazine
"Singer dm possesses you immediately with vocals that fall somewhere
between Siouxsie and Grace Slick. The band's music swells around her, rising to
impossible heights and then dropping out to leave dm alone in darkness to fend
for herself until she scratches and claws her way out. To describe them simply
as a goth band would be a travesty..."
– MTV Out From Underground
"the missing: combine gothic sensibilities with the harshness and power of
industrial music. While all the musicians in the band deserve praise, it is the
vocals of dm that drive the band home. Her ability to hold a note alone sets her
apart from many of her peers...dm chooses to be heard, and it's lucky for
us...she is capable of the harshest growls as well as mellifluous
sounds..."
– The Poison Apple
During the Psychodrama Records' 1998 Tri-State Music Showcase, the missing: beat
out 200 other bands to take first place in the Hard Rock/Metal category. Their
success was covered in area newspapers:
"Does anyone remember Doro Pesch from Warlock? I always wanted to be her
when I grew up -- heavy metal chick extraordinaire -- and the missing: has one
of their very own. She's a raven-haired vixen who goes by the initials
"dm" and feels no compulsion to keep her mouth shut and look pretty.
While scared to death of her, I really admire her voice, which is clear, strong
and quite beautiful, no matter how much she distorts it for the purpose of her
noiresque singing machinations. the missing: is a shrapnel-laced concoction of
heavy metal and goth-industrial. The overall effect is a grinding, sexy
spookiness that creeps up and blackens your soul. Melodrama is revered, and it
drives their riotous live shows..."
– The Westchester Weekly
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