Black Dahlia Murder, The: Everblack

This album has already been out for a few weeks, but I'm glad to be reviewing it right now. These days, hype builds up; albums come out; hype dies down; and audiences move on to the next thing. Some albums, however, deserve to be savored a little longer. My problem, though, is that I've always had mixed feelings for The Black Dahlia Murder. I understand that they are a pretty big deal, but I was just never drawn to previous releases. I still remember not liking the parts of Ritual I heard. As it happens, though, I saw the band on their last tour (with Nile!) and was really impressed with Trevor Strnad's unbelievable energy. Still, I worried that the band was more about hype and popularity than really solid music.

This album changed my mind. I can't quite explain why, but there's just something different here. The band feels tighter, the music more interesting. I was especially drawn to the way the band sticks to the right blend of melody and death metal aggressiveness here. The guitar parts, from the twin harmonies to the amazing solos, all sound great. The solo part on track 5 alone is worth a listen. For readers discovering this band for the first time, be sure to check out the first three tracks, all of which show off a band at the top of their game, grabbing the audience's attention and never letting go.

The rest of the album is a consistent musical offering, bold and brutal. Sure, there isn't a lot of variety here, but the overall sound is confident and bold. By the end, I was a little weary of Trevor Strnad's vocals. For better or worse, his screech is a little grating. Still, he has a real talent for keeping things lively and daring. With this album, these guys have hit their stride and won over another listener.

Track Listing:
1. In Hell is Where She Waits for Me
2. Goat of Departure
3. Into the Everblack
4. Raped in Hatred by Vines of Thorn
5. Phamtom Limb Masturbation
6. Control
7. Blood Mine
8. Every Rope a Noose
9. Their Beloved Absentee
10. Map of Scars

Added: July 26th 2013
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Facebook Page
Hits: 1849
Language: english

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