An All Round Winner
Well, who can honestly say that they have not found themselves humming along to Trivium's catchy numbers in the past year? The band, having been fast tracked to stardom, fresh from playing high up on the bill at Download this year, have a fair amount at stake with their third album "The Crusade". Thankfully for the band, the album delivers exactly what you'd expect.
If you like your Metallica, as these boys clearly do, then you're in for a treat. Matt Heafy has clearly been taking a note from his idols books and his vocals are really powered into line with the rest of the band's talent. Album opener 'Ignition' explodes into colour, filling your room with soundscapes to take your breath away. There's a newfound maturity lurking beneath this epic monstrosity- these are boys who have grown up and grown into their role as the new Metallica.
Whatever you're after, it can be found on "The Crusade". There's shouting, singing, melodic breakdowns, meaty drum work and a powerful bass weaving through and interlinking everything into something very special indeed.
Songs such as 'Entrance of the Conflagration' and 'Anthem' show off this band's natural flair for detail and seamless blending of ideas and sounds. 'And Sadness Will Sear' shows off a darker side of Trivium, bringing the speed down a touch but increasing the emotion tenfold. Thrown into a world of high flying bands and support slots with the world's most renowned bands- they're supporting Iron Maiden next month- it's no wonder this band, so tender in years, has found a darker muse to create their masterpieces.
'Becoming The Dragon' is another hit single competing to be released- lengthy, but somehow those changing riffs and that hypnotic vocal work means it's an enjoyable 4:43 seconds.
However, the one thing that strikes you again and again throughout this album is Heafy's voice. Where has that bark gone, the slightly unpalatable roar? In its place is Hetfield's triumphant growl; melodic, strong and bold. Have the boys been listening to Metallica non stop during the production of this record? Perhaps, but with tracks this enjoyable, it is hardly something to complain about.
Strangely accessible, 'The Rising' is the next generation 'Pull Harder On The..." for their latest release. Catchy and anthemic with a powerful yet restrained pace, this is the song that truly stands out on this album of sheer brilliance.
Ignore this band at your peril, for this band has the determination, skill and true desire to conquer the modern day metal market once and for all. If you thought Trivium were big, then think again. They are on the brink of becoming massive.