Released: Jun 24, 2011
Genre: Nu Metal, Rap Metal
Label: Interscope, Polydor
Number Of Tracks: 13
As abrasive and full of machismo as "Gold Cobra" may be, the latest Limp Bizkit release is shockingly satisfying.
Gold CobraFeatured review by: UG Team, on june 28, 2011 7 of 10 people found this review helpful
Sound: Limp Bizkit has been made the butt of jokes galore since slightly falling off the radar over the past few years. For better or worse, the massive success of "Nookie" was usually overshadowed by stories of Fred Durst's seemingly larger ego. So the idea of reviewing Limp Bizkit’s latest album "Gold Cobra" was undoubtedly tainted with some bias of the negative kind and a general feeling that the record would, well, suck. Sometimes you have to admit you're wrong, and that is precisely what happened after giving the band's fifth studio record a listen. Let's not pretend they've reached some new level of introspective lyrical content or anything to that extreme. No, "Gold Cobra" is as self-loving, in-your-face, and abrasive as they come – and it all ends up being actually a highly enjoyable package.
While the lyrics do tend to draw you in line after line, in the end there is an even more integral element that makes "Gold Cobra" more than just your run-of-the-mill nu metal record. Guitarist Wes Borland's creativity has never been stronger with his licks, use of effects, and tone. Every song features at least one riff or effect that completely overshadows anything that Durst is delivering lyrically. Borland is the model that so many new rock bands should look to in the fact that he doesn't get mired in chugging and power chords. It's obvious he is thinking way outside the box with each of the 13 tracks.
"Gold Cobra" begins with the hypnotic and chaotic intro aptly titled "Introbra". It’s a beautiful mess of screaming women, ticking clocks, dramatic horns, and a bevy of other noises. The band wisely doesn't ease you into the album with pretty, dramatic musicality, as it would be a pretty far cry from the other material. "Bring It Back" features an amazing guitar groove that is highlighted by subtle harmonics, while Durst does his best lightning speed rapping throughout. The title track includes what sounds like quick use of a slide from Borland, but given the unusual approaches that the guitarist takes in each track, I could be completely way off on his technique. Regardless, it's amazing.
There aren't any apologies coming from Limp Bizkit, and that never becomes more evident than the interlude following "Loser". You hear Durst messing around with an autotune effect behind the scenes, essentially both mocking and extolling the virtues of the processor. Durst is so amused he announces that he plans to incorporate his new toy in the next song, "Autotuneage". Thankfully the band doesn't go too overboard with the autotuning because that would have been insanely irritating. While it's still not one of the best tracks, Limp Bizkit manages to squeeze in the autotune without causing the instantaneous I-must-skip-to-the-next-track effect. As you listen to the whole record, this feeling of love/hate does cause a bit of an inner battle, but when you hear Borland's guitar work/arrangements, it's hard not to admit that there is ingenuity happening on "Gold Cobra". // 9
Lyrics and Singing: Fred Durst has never been brasher, but it was almost necessary to make a rather big entrance after the six years between albums. There are songs aplenty about Durst not giving a f--k or living the life he wants to regardless of people's opinions, but his approach is so over the top that you have to chuckle. You almost want to high five him. The title track is a prime example with lines like, "The door is shuttin; and a knife will do you no good; You getting' nothin' while I rock here in Hollywood; I'll tell you somethin' else you can take it to the bank; I don't give a fuck what none of y'all people think". Sure, there are a couple songs not dedicated to saying how awesome Durst is, but those are the dull ones of the bunch. // 8
Impression: Borland and Durst produced "Gold Cobra", and they would be wise to continue this route for future albums. The material is strange, ridiculous, and engaging – in the best way. If you've been a Limp Bizkit hater in the past, give a listen to a few new tracks. At the very least, if you can't stand Durst, just focus your attention on Borland's work. Rather than relying on insanely fast, arpeggio-driven solos, he finds other more novel approaches that in many ways leave you in even greater awe. // 9
Gold Cobra
Reviewed by:
MetalheadXYZ, on march 28, 2012 1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Sound: This is Limp Bizkit's new album, "Gold Cobra". It was released on June 28, 2011. It was the 5 year return of Limp Bizkit. I love Limp Bizkit. I've been with them since "Three Dollar Bill, Y'All$"; that album was really good, even though it was raw. "Significant Other", nothing different, it was as good. "Chocolate Starfish And The Hotdog Flavored Water", it was good even though it was kinda pop genre. Then Wes Borland left the band. Limp Bizkit then released "Results May Vary". It had a couple good songs but wasn't a standout without Wes.
This album, It ups their sound, guitar wise. The guitar work on this album is just amazing. Guitar work such as "Gold Cobra", "Shark Attack", "Shotgun", "Autotunage", and "Killer In You" had the best guitar riffs. // 9
Lyrics and Singing: On this album, Fred's vocals are just the worst distraction. The lyrics are just terrible and careless. Fred Durst just writes about how we has picked on when he was only a kid. On the song, "Douche Bag", this is his answer as said in the chorus to the song "Douche Bag":
"Douche Bag, I'ma f--k you up
F--k you, f--k you, f--k you up."
That's evidence that Fred Durst was always getting picked on when he was only just a kid. // 5
Impression: "Gold Cobra", this is a very welcome time back. I heard it the day it came out. "Gold Cobra" is one of my favorite albums out there. I'd say "Gold Cobra" would have a sound from "Three Dollar Bill, Y'All$" and "Significant Other". I liked the songs "Gold Cobra", "Shark Attack", "Shotgun", "Loser", "Autotunage", "Why Try", and "Killer In You".
Likes: it's a return to Limp Bizkit, the guitar work.
Dislikes: Fred's vocals (worst distraction on this record), and needs more songs. // 9
Gold Cobra
Reviewed by:
UG Team, on june 28, 2011 1 of 8 people found this review helpful
Sound: Limp Bizkit's return to recording is unsurprising in spite of the band's hiatus in the aftermath of 2005's "The Unquestionable Truth". During that time, only Wes Borland's Black Light Burns project merits serious musical reflection, and on Limp Bizkit's return it is his input that sustains the band.
The album's second song - "Bring It Back" - begins with aplomb, Borland's rhythmic riffing initiating a well intentioned track. Unfortunately that impression doesn't last for long, and neither does the track. Nothing happens, and we're onto the title track – "Gold Cobra". Borland's guitar playing yet again gives so much hope to the album, and that’s making allowances for Durst's "crying b-tches". The band behind the vocalist provides a lesson in musicianship, skill, and timing, but although Limp Bizkit's original fans have aged considerably since the band’s beginnings, it is hardly a surprise to note that Durst's lyrical content ensures that the band's target audience remains teenagers.
But although Gold Cobra's musicianship is evident, the band's efforts do not serve Durst and Borland's joint statement that the primary motivation to the band's reunion was their disgust with the state of popular heavy music. Songs like the toned-down, retrospective "Shotgun" do see a mature Limp Bizkit, with Durst's much maligned input even serving its purpose. There is even time for a beautifully measured Wes Borland guitar solo, where he emphasises his skill in playing for the song. DJ Lethal's input to the track cements it as the stand-out track of the album.
Fred Durst's hinting that "big wigs" have opposed the release of "Douche Bag" as a single is one of the noted news stories to come out of this album's release. The song title alone serves ample levels of foreboding with chocolate starfish, but the song itself is well worked, with Borland coaxing some terrific squeals from his guitar.
Yet even with Durst's cries of "douche bag" still bludgeoning my inner ear, the next track - "Walking Away" - proves Limp Bizkit has something relevant to offer over a decade since the band's inception. It sacrifices Durst's attitude for something more subtle. It is an unexpected surprise from Limp Bizkit.
After that the band seems to fizzle out, with what can only be described as filler on show. Durst's attitude is Limp Bizkit's biggest obstacle, but the problem for the band is that without him... // 5
Lyrics and Singing: Durst's vocals sound tired in this day and age, his delivery stuck in the 20th century. There are bands like the Stones and Led Zeppelin whose songs and attitude endure, and then there is the delivery of lyrics such as those found in "Douche Bag". It's banal, and rock has suited up a little since 2005. // 4
Impression: Limp Bizkit is an experienced band, and although the music serves a purpose insofar as its credibility far outweighs anything that Durst brings to the band, there is nothing to say that this will reignite Limp Bizkit's former levels of popularity. In the meantime, keep listening to Black Light Burns, and if you really must, you can return to songs like "Rollin'". // 5
I listened to it, and this album deserves a solid 5. Some interesting music riffs, but other then that, nothing makes the band really stand out as something special. The singer is the weakest point of this band. Childish, immature lyrics and style included in this album lead me to believe that while Fred Durst has claimed to have changed and become a better person, he is still the untalented rapper with a very shallow mind.
If you have nothing else to listen to, or just need to get your fix, then this will do. Beyond that, is left up to opinion.
The album really is quite good, if only for the instrumentals. Borland and the others knock it out of the park yet it's all dragged down by Durst. Definitely read Borlands rebuttal on Antiquiet though.
I would give it a 7.5/10 and consider it one of the strongest LB albums.
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
So far, the album seems to have fairly good songs on it. The rapping seems to have toned down from the past albums and can almost pass for singing and the band itself sounds the heaviest it's ever been. Please give this album a chance.
To be honost I disagree with both reviews. Wouldn't give it so low nor so high. Would go with a score somewhere in between. I find the album quite enjoyable actually. Would rate it 7.
I can understand being a fan of a band like this. You know what to expect, and review accordingly. But consider this....giving an album like this a 7.5 leaves very little room for improvement. Then again, it's a shitty rating scale. Too many subpar albums get an 8 or 9 out of ten on release, and then the follow up manages to be an improvement.
Its a vocal style for the band, nothing more nothing less, if you don't like his voice, don't listen to it. His attitude isn't what you listen too. That and i thought he did "behind blue eyes" justice. Just my 2c
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Then you didn't see the same video. They gave no insight, and barely gave any interview. I think they were high at the time.
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Then you didn't see the same video. They gave no insight, and barely gave any interview. I think they were high at the time.
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Then you didn't see the same video. They gave no insight, and barely gave any interview. I think they were high at the time.
You sure you weren't high?
,
Wow, aren't you creative. Got both brain cells working today, huh? Nice user name, tard.
How can somebody with a name like Ibeanez have any room to say anything about someone with a name like Horsedick.MPEG?
At least we know where Horsedick(.MPEG) got his name. You just put a bean in Ibanez. And by the way, I have a couple Ibanez guitars, and besides the extended fretboard, they are my least favorite guitars that I own. So, I like Horsedick.MPEG's name better.
I grew up with these guys, and tbh, I actually think this is a great return. Rarely is a return album perfect, I just think too many people base this band on Fred D. and his actions outside of music. That's what metal is about, the music, isn't it? Also, no offense to Ibeanez and Horsedick.MPEG, but I haven't had this much fun since grade school.
I haven't heard the new album yet so I can't comment on it, but judging from the reviews/comments, it seems that just as in the past, Borland and the rest of the band are the only saving grace compared to Durst's eternal mediocrity.
I love Limp Bizkit, saw them at Leeds Fest last year and they kicked ass. And if you're getting pissed at them being cocky, then they win and you got trolled.
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Then you didn't see the same video. They gave no insight, and barely gave any interview. I think they were high at the time.
You sure you weren't high?
,
Wow, aren't you creative. Got both brain cells working today, huh? Nice user name, tard.
his username is moderately silly, it's off of a movie... lol. good job. as far as limp bizkit goes i don't like them, heard a song off the album and didn't like it either. oh well. at least i think we can all agree that my username is the best!!!!! haha not really
It's funny how ppl say that LB is irrelevant, mediocre and so on and so forth, but when I go to their concert and see 30000 ppl singing and bouncing with them it states the opposite. People, just get over your hatred. You don't like it? Then just pass it by.
It's funny how ppl say that LB is irrelevant, mediocre and so on and so forth, but when I go to their concert and see 30000 ppl singing and bouncing with them it states the opposite. People, just get over your hatred. You don't like it? Then just pass it by.
Boredom, not hatred. If you can stand the same shit they've been doing since day one, then pat yourself on the back for having patience, but perhaps overly commericial, cheesy, american hip hop meets dull as hell barely-heavy metal isn't as appealing as you'd like to think to everyone else.
Wes is one of the most creative rock musicians around, really. The problem is that I almost can't call him a guitarist. He doesn't treat it as a guitar. It's an instrument. Totally different. If we all just do sweeps, or speed picking, or arpeggios, and crap like that, it all sounds the same (which is a point made with Dethklok). Wes thinks in a completely different way. Take his seven string, for example. The reason he probably didn't have a very good response for the above mentioned interview is that he doesn't have it tuned as a seven. Two high Es, and then the rest matches a standard guitar (well, as far as Bizkit ever matched a standard tuning). And, frankly, Wes' tapping technique throughout his entire career has been mind-blowing (different rhythms for each hand in Re-arranged? Yes, please). So, ultimately, to state he has no idea what he's doing? Son, you're just not paying attention.
I want to know when most of UG will get over the bandwagon hate for Limp Bizkit, KoRn, and other similar bands.
This album is okay. And I will probably always love Limp Bizkit. I sure hope a tour comes soon, and they come around my area..
lol are you really under the impression that, in 2011, people are trying to buck the nu metal trend for credibility? These bandwagon haters people like you complain about prefer to keep up with bands that are popular and relevant by today's standards.
The real bandwagoners were the ones who made these kinds of bands popular, and then ditched said bands when they were no longer viable. And why? Because the music doesn't hold up. You and I are free to like it or hate it as we please, but I can guarantee that no one is trying to score cool points for ripping into Fred Durst. I still enjoy Deftones and System of a Down, but you don't see me making excuses.
I was a huge bizkit fan back in the day, they helped introduced me to my true love heavy metal, i never gave a shit about them without wes. Been listeing to the new album on youtube and shit son...it's quite orginal sounding and really catchy. Might half to pick this one up. (Never seen Limp with Wes can't wait for the tour!)
How can somebody with a name like Ibeanez have any room to say anything about someone with a name like Horsedick.MPEG?
At least we know where Horsedick(.MPEG) got his name. You just put a bean in Ibanez. And by the way, I have a couple Ibanez guitars, and besides the extended fretboard, they are my least favorite guitars that I own. So, I like Horsedick.MPEG's name better.
The return to the classic heavy nu metal sound Limp Bizkit has been remembered as. Unfortunately, there are a few songs on here you should never ever listen to, the "softer side" is shit. "Shotgun", "Shark Attack", and AT LEAST "Gold Cobra" are a must for songs to download!
I have no doubt that you like Horsedick better than Ibanez, MPEG or real. I have many different brands of guitars as well. My user name is an inside joke. Unfortunately, so is his.
Sigh...
This comments section is just bad. The album isn't much better. I've never been a huge fan of these guys, but this is bad.
oh... "sigh".. "meh" people have a different opinion than you. boo freakin hoo.. it's like your trying to complain, but you really don't even have a reason.
I have no doubt that you like Horsedick better than Ibanez, MPEG or real. I have many different brands of guitars as well. My user name is an inside joke. Unfortunately, so is his.
It's from the movie "Miss March" you should check it out its hilarious
Am I right by guessing that 90% of people giving this album low ratings never even listened to it; they just did it because it has Limp Bizkit written on the cover?
The lyrics are rubbish immature/macho crap, how old is this guy!? As far as lyrics go, their previous release was better...checkout The Truth (from The Unquestionable Truth Pt.1 LP), decent lyrics and great riffing. I was keen to see them progress on this direction before they went missing.
Sigh...
This comments section is just bad. The album isn't much better. I've never been a huge fan of these guys, but this is bad.
oh... "sigh".. "meh" people have a different opinion than you. boo freakin hoo.. it's like your trying to complain, but you really don't even have a reason.
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Then you didn't see the same video. They gave no insight, and barely gave any interview. I think they were high at the time.
You sure you weren't high?
,
Wow, aren't you creative. Got both brain cells working today, huh? Nice user name, tard.
LOL, that name is great actually from a funny movie. And it is nice to be good at what you do (borland) and know nothing about what you are doing "musically". I know what I do on guitar well and know absolutely nothing about actual music theory or anythign else. I'm sure that there are a ton of other people that think the same way about their instrument. What would your response have been to the question to make you "actually care about them" after that?
Everyone likes to point out how Borland is the solid one in the band. Years ago when Ibanez was first pushing their 7-string guitars, they handed out a free video (vhs) on which they interviewed the best-known Ibanez 7-string players and asked them how they use it and why they like it. I'll never forget Borland basically sitting there with a blank look on his face, basically saying "I don't know what I'm doing". The guys from Korn did exactly the same thing. I pretty much ignored all of them after that.
I saw that same video. Those guys did a really good interview and gave good insight, you're probably crying that they weren't going all epic on in-depth techie sh*t.
Then you didn't see the same video. They gave no insight, and barely gave any interview. I think they were high at the time.
You sure you weren't high?
well...there are two different videos. i konw what you mean. in one of them he really looks and acts like he's stoned.
but there's also another one where he explains every new feature of a seven string ibanez with piezo pickups and whammy bar. this one is really good and informal. and he's not high
but there's also another one where he explains every new feature of a seven string ibanez with piezo pickups and whammy bar. this one is really good and informal. and he's not high
Yep, he's playing an RG7 CST in that video, a Highly sought after Ibanez , wish I was the guy that bought it from him when he quit playing his Ibanez guitars. The RG7 CSTs hold their value, big time! I've been trying to find one for a few years now with the original pickups & a body that's in good shape for at least 3k, but the ones I've found are missing original pups & are being sold for 3.5k - 5k... or have had the hell beat out of them (literally) & being sold for 3.5k... I can stand some dents & chips here and there, but straight up abuse. I've seen one looked like an iron was smacked against the front of the body all around the edges, looked pretty cool, actually, but at the 3k+ range, I'll pass, mad devalue in my opinion, wouldn't touch it unless he wanted to let it go for 1.5k.
Hahahaha.