Review Summary: A combination of death metal, catchy melody, and a lot of bad ass. One of Children of Bodom's best releases.
Change is inevitable. Children of Bodom's music style has changed over the years from power metal to a more straight forward death metal sound. While it is true that all bands change, not all of them adapt well and thrive. Luckily, Are You Dead Yet? is a solid album in a different path for the Hate Crew.
Are You Dead Yet is full of; crunchy metal riffs, speedy lead work, and of course, their iconic synthesizer. Each song provides something different and exciting. It is important to note that the guitar-work constantly in the spotlight and shines in each song. The riffs are catchy and, for lack of a better word, Bad Ass.
One thing that may throw listeners off is the harsh vocal work on the album. While it isn't necessarily bad, it can be too much at points and does take away from some of the otherwise outstanding instrumentation in the songs.
When Alexi Laiho is not screaming into the mic, guitar and synthesizer duos are abundant and well used. They often tend to be the theme in their individual songs and are very melodic and enjoyable. One thing I really enjoy about the band is their ability to be heavy, yet melodic at the same time. This is one of the main things that really drew me to this band and particularly this album.
The drumming on the album is fantastic and really compliments the music. There is an abundance of quick double bass work which any metal-lover will appreciate.
When the bass gets a chance to shine, such as in 'Bastards of Bodom', it's quick, punchy and effective.
While most will disagree with me, I feel that Are You Dead Yet is Children of Bodom's best release to date. I recommend this album to anyone who enjoys death metal (although then you probably have already heard it) and anyone who enjoys excellent guitar work.
Recommended Tracks:
Living Dead Beat
Trashed, Lost and Strungout
Bastards of Bodom
In Your Face
