Pacifier (Nothingface album)

Background

Many of the tracks on Pacifier were re-recorded from the band's 1995 independent release Nothingface. The tracks "Defaced", "Self Punishment", "Hitch", "Useless", "Perfect Person", and "Communion" were all re-recorded from Nothingface with slight lyrical changes.

To help promote the album, music videos were made for the tracks "Pacifier" and "Defaced". In "Pacifier", singer Matt Holt is seen wearing a bright golden jacket, which he claimed the record label forced him to wear, in order to give the video a "happier" feel.

Critical reception

Allmusic gave the album three stars out of five and said that although "Pacifier has garnered unfair comparisons to Korn", the band "show a bright flair that could very well lead them to stardom." Mark Jenkins from The Washington Post criticized Holt's harsh vocals and a lack of variety on the album, although he acknowledged the technical skill and musicianship of the band.

Musical style and lyrics

Elements of alternative metal, post-punk and death metal are incorporated throughout the album. Matt Holt's harsh and growling vocals are different from Nothingface releases that come after the album Pacifier. The album's songs feature the same musical formula used by the band Korn.

Lyrical themes explored include self-loathing, inner turmoil, self-esteem issues, animosity and feeling suicidal. The track "Defaced" is about child molestation and abuse.

Track listing

All lyrics written by Matt Holt; all music composed by Nothingface.

Personnel