After the breakdown of Bush, Gavin Rossdale figuratively stood at an intersection... he had to choose whether he's going to make a sentimental solo record or perform heavier music. Upon meeting Page Hamilton (Helmet), Rossdale decided in favour of the latter. Institute is a new rock/metal group, which is a product of collaboration. Instead of having Rossdale solely call the tune, all members have had their input on this debut album titled as "Distort Yourself".

Musically the songs vary from groovy yet hard-hitting modern metal to tender ballads. In every case, songs have some catchy hooklines and strong verses. Too bad the songs aren't that original, though. However, Gavin Rossdale's distinctive vocals flavour the music subtly, and the production sets the scene for astonishment. Unfortunately, the lyrics on this album are meaningless.

Helmet's frontman Page Hamilton handled the production of this album with the exception of "Bullet-proof Skin" and "Save the Robots", which in turn were produced by Gavin Rossdale himself. Jay Baumgardner handled the mixing - indisputably well, if I may add... the mix is spacious, yet there are also tighter sections every now and then.

Institute is definitely a welcome newcomer to the modern metal scene. Due to being entirely different band compared to Bush, it isn't prerequisite at all to be a fan of Rossdale's previous group to enjoy listening to Institute. Nonetheless, also fans of Bush may find "Distort Yourself" worth checking out.

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- MAGE (October 31st, 2005)

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LINE-UP:
Rossdale, Gavin: Vocals & Guitar Traynor, Chris: Guitar Tolman, Cache: Bass Walker, Charlie: Drums with Stefani, Gwen: Backing Vocals on Ambulances Muhobarac, Jamie: Freese, Josh: Lanois, Daniel: Hamilton, Page:
Producer:	Hamilton, Page & Rossdale, Gavin
Mixing by:	Baumgardner, Jay
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Bullet-proof Skin 02. When Animals Attack 03. Come on Over 04. Information Age 05. Wasteland 06. Boom Box 07. Seventh Wave 08. The Heat of Your Love 09. Ambulances 10. Secrets and Lies 11. Mountains 12. Save the Robots 13. The Buzz of My System (Bonus) Length: 55:33