The Strength Of The Songs Improves The Sound...
Volbeat are predicted by the rock media to be "the next big thing". supposedly sounding fresh and new, the metallers from Denmark have a lot to live up to with all the hype that has been floating around, Do they live up? Yes! No song on this album could possibly be considered a filler, they all stand out from one another while using the same formula which is a very rare thing indeed these days. This band sound like a revitalised version of stoner rock… New, louder, catcher yet heavier. The band have a slightly southern, bluesy, dirty feel to them which is great because it sounds like a lighter version of Down occasionally (ex-Pantera singer Phil Anselmo's band)
Tracks like 'Caroline Leaving' seem to be the heavier offerings on the album sounding like a fresh version of Corrosion of Conformity which is certainly not a bad thing. Whereas 'Soulweeper' has a more 'We Are the Champions' kind of feel to it, the songs certainly vary from one another, but like I said, still keep the same formula.
The vocals on this album are outstanding, lead singer and guitarist Michael Poulsen is an outstanding singer and guitar play. His voice is indescribable yet incredibly addictive. The guitarists are very talented indeed, playing complex solos and downright dirty riffs and there's a very southern feel to their playing. And the drummer often pulls off galloping beats in the style of Iron Maiden with the bassist following along easily.
The production here is great. It is reasonably well polished but captures the essential live sound that a rock/metal band should always have- there are no pro-tools here!
'The Strength/The Sound/The Songs' is a pretty strong album and will impress fans of the dirtiest stoner/doom metal such as Down but also fans of bands like Godsmack, so there's something here for everyone, well worth your money, check it out!