'Equilibrium' - the band's sixth album, came, and with it, a new guitarist in Matt Wicklund, whose other projects I am entirely unfamiliar with. The good news? He can shred like a bitch. One worry averted.
The band's sound has changed noticeably - Doc is doing most of the melodic singing now, where on previous releases the band favoured Dallas' voice. His vocals are deeper and 'meatier' than his brother's, so it's no negative change, just one that gives the band's sound a different texture.
A few people have levelled accusations at the band of doing the same thing again and again - well, I can see why they'd say that, but then didn't people say the same thing about Lamb of God? God Forbid are churning out NWOAHM, have been since I first heard them, sure... But the strength of the songs means this is consistency.
So, the new disc. Well, Corey Pierce, the happiest drummer in metal (you ever seen how much he smiles behind that kit?) has clearly sat on a fire as he's playing faster and blastier than ever. The songs tend to favour a slightly predictable verse/chorus formula, seemingly a little more radio friendly this time. The guitars and bass are all chugging along too - Doc's leads are tastier than a 5kg bucket of buffalo wings - and Byron' vocals still drip bloody murder over the chaos beneath. We even get a guest solo from Per Nilsson. Oh hell yes.
Overall? I rate this album at 7/10. It';s a strong disc that could maybe use a little variation, but the strength of the music carries it beyond this and into the realm of memorable metal that you'll be humming for days on end.
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