Review Summary: After a two year break, Carnifex returns with a crushing album packed with quality material and only some filler.
At the end of 2012, it appeared that Carnifex had called it quits. However, they decided to come together to produce one final product that would determine the fate of the band. Signing to Nuclear Blast Records was the first step in the right direction. They were able to give a large amount of promotion and attention to this album, which it truly deserves.
The record starts out with "Salvation is Dead." An eerie industrial-like passage starts the track off. Great riffs, a catchy chorus, a decent solo, and a crushing breakdown is what can be found in this track. This is probably the most complete and well-rounded song on the album, and is fittingly my favorite. "Dark Days" continues as the second song, and features more of a black metal sound. This is another track with a great solo and punishing riffs. "Hatred and Slaughter" is another standout that features a blistering solo, and two breakdowns that will leave the listener quivering in fear. Br00tal stuff. "Where The Light Dies" closes the album and is a perfect way to finish it. This song also features some black metal sections along with a thrash metal riff towards the end of the song. The song is finished by a soft piano passage that lets the listener breathe and take in what they have just been assaulted with. The only songs I would say worth skipping over is "Rotten Souls" and "Last Words."
This album contains barely any flaws, and the drums and guitars really shine on this album. Scott also showcases his amazing and diverse vocal ability, proving he is one of the best in the genre. His black metal high's and death metal low's and mid range are contrasted well. The only issue with this album is the lyrics at times. Lines like "I will crush you with my words," and "I like the way blood tastes," just remind me of middle school. Other than that, this album is great, and you should definitely check it out if you like death metal/core with black metal tendencies.
Songs to check out: Salvation is Dead, Dark Days, Hatred and Slaughter, Where the Light Dies
Songs not to check out: Rotten Souls, Last Words
