When someone mentions the three letters "CKY," one ultimately considers either Bam Margera or a set of DVD’s filled with lunacy and absurdity. But, if one will look deeper and discover that the three letters are indeed a powerful band, one will not be disappointed. Currently owning Infiltrate.Destroy.Rebuild, I realize the intensity of their abilities to create music. I noticed with CKY albums that the first six songs are stellar and epic, filled with Deron’s catchy voice, Jess’ thundering banging of drums and Chad’s sick licks of the guitar. This album was no different.
The album opens with ‘Suddenly Tragic,” a catchy and trademark CKY riff filled with emotion and feeling. The chorus and pre-chorus are extremely captivating and you will find yourself humming the tune for days. The song has a familiar sound and makes you want to pop Infiltrate.Destroy.Rebuild back into your CD player. A genuine track and a great opener.
Next, is a personal fave, “The Way You Lived.” It opens with an incredibly catchy riff that you will want to hear over and over again. The lyrics are intense, and the pre-chorus and verses lead up to something big. But, the chorus can be repetitive and it is not the chorus you were waiting for and what CKY was building up too. All in all, a solid track.
“Dressed in Decay” is the third track and starts off with lyrics immediately without an intro. A very enjoyable track filled with melodies and is a reminiscent of vintage CKY. The only downfall is no trademark intro OR even a sick guitar solo. But, the song has the strength to be heard an abundant amount of times.
The track that was released for early listening, “Familiar Realm,” is a slower song with a catchy beat. After hearing it for the first time, I was shocked and hoped the rest of the album was faster and more classic CKY. But, after a few listens, the song will grow on you and turns out to be a decent track.
The next song can be quite possibly the best on the album. “All Power to Slaves” kicks in with a solid riff and the singing and guitar work are very memorable. The song is EPIC, goes from slow to fast with a solid solo from Mr. Ginsberg. A very solid track and your repeat button will be worn out after this song.
“Tripled Manic State” is another great track filled with CKY intensity. When Deron screams, it is breathtaking and makes you wonder why he doesn’t do it more often. The song has great rhythms, beats, and enough lyrical delight to keep you hooked for months. Another great track.
Hmm, an instrumental track is number seven. “Behind the Screams” is more likely a filler but still proves to be interesting. But not something you would expect from CKY.
“Deceit is Striking Gold” differs from what you are used to by CKY. It is catchy as hell, holds intensity and closes out nicely. Just add a solo and some screams and this track would be stellar.
Number nine features “As the Tables Turn,” all in all is an okay track. It has great vocals with a slow chorus and pre-chorus. It may not be the best on the album, but will gain a few interests and turn a few heads. It isn’t anything breathtaking, but does have some quality highpoints.
“Sniped” reminds me a lot of “Sporadic Movement” from I.D.R. It is a heavier song, and features snarled vocals by Mr. Miller. It is a solid track with catchy beats and riffs. The intro is heavy and opens plugged ears instantly. A good heavy track from our three musicians.
The closing ballad is simply awe-stricken. “Don’t Hold Your Breath,” much like other closing ballads “Close Yet Far” and “To All of You,” is an awesome closer. The song is filled with great harmonies and fabulous singing by Deron. The song is an excellent offertory song and in all its complexities shines through.
Overall;
1. Suddenly Tragic 7/10
2. The Way You Lived 8/10
3. Dressed In Decay 7/10
4. Familiar Realm 6/10
5. All Power To Slaves 9/10
6. Tripled Manic State 8/10
7. Behind The Scream n/a
8. Deceit Is Striking Gold 6/10
9. As The Tables Turn 6/10
10. Sniped 6/10
11. Don't Hold Your Breath 8/10
Total: 71/100 for 71%
3.5 stars
In conclusion, fans may feel that the three year wait would have produced more of a ‘complete’ album with more vintage CKY. This album won’t disappoint and is a great follow-up nonetheless. Personally, I enjoyed AACBF, and the majority of the CKY Alliance and fans will appreciate the work of Deron, Jess and Chad.
