The Metal Files

As much as I hate to admit it, I illegally downloaded the new Arsis from a file sharing site today.  I really don’t like doing that but this is one time that I couldn’t control myself.  In my own defense (not that there is one), I pre-ordered both versions of the new one.  OK, I’m a thief.  Call Lars Ulrich!

Anyway…I am a fanboy of certain bands and Arsis is certainly one of them.  Sucks that I haven’t seen them play since like 2005 or 2006.  WTF?  I don’t need to go back into my history with the band, it slathered through this site.

But you’re here to read my review.  Let me start with welcoming back Mike Van Dyne on the drums.  Nice work, man.  We Are the Nightmare (WATN) was my #1 album of 2008 and this album is different, but not in a bad way.  The production isn’t quite as thick as the last album meaning that the drum production isn’t over the top like on the last one.  I didn’t mind it at all but I like how this sounds.  And it has Van Dyne written all over it.

Overall the songs don’t seem as over the top as WATN but it’s kicking my ass.  This is the album I expected.  The solos and riffs are all there.  I’m only through one and a half listens but this is great.

If you’ve liked any or all of the other Arsis albums, you will not be disappointed, I promise.