CHIMAIRA-RESURRECTION FERRET MUSIC
Cleveland’s finest were born in 1998 and since then, have set the metal world on fire. Since their first EP “This Present Darkness,” they’ve released 4 incredible full lengths, lost some band members, were dropped from their former label and dealt with possibly ending it all. By the grace of the metal gods, this never happened and thus allowed Chimaira to construct yet another classic, and breathe life into an otherwise lifeless metal scene. They also signed to a new label (Ferret Music) and allowed a former member back into the fray.
After their 2005 self titled album “Chimaira,” I waited in great anticipation for what was next to come from this ground breaking band. Although their last album had a bit more melodic elements to it, it was still extremely aggressive and considered by many including myself, a classic! But, with “Resurrection,” that likeness has been slightly pushed aside as the band has gone for a more brutal attack!
The guitar/bass tandem of Rob Arnold, Matt Devries and Jim LaMarca is fabulous, showcasing some great talent and technical ability. Chris Spicuzza’s work behind the boards is supreme as he incorporates sick samples that only add to this masterpiece. His keyboard skills and added vocals fit perfectly as they don’t overshadow the contributions of the other band members. Andy Herrick returns as the drummer reuniting with the crew and doles out some serious skills.
The opening track is one of the CD’s strongest tracks. It not only speaks of the tribulations they went through inside their camp, it also speaks of their split with former label Roadrunner. The chorus on “Resurrection” is one of those that will be stuck in your head all day after hearing it.
“Determination, Perseverance, Resolution…Resurrection!!!”
But it’s the lyrics and the delivery of vocalist Mark Hunter that’ll get you open with lines like:
“A wise man once said
That which does not kill us makes us stronger
But we were dead
So are we now invincible”
The brutality carries over to the next track “Pleasure in Pain” and then onto the fast paced stunner in “Worthless.”. The track “Six” is a 9 minute epic track that shows the bands versatility and introduces certain musical intricacies not heard in past albums. “Killing The Beast” is a moody and unbelievably heavy number that contains an impressively versatile vocal performance from Mark Hunter, who still stands as arguably one of the most fearsome-sounding singers in metal today. Other notable tracks are “End It All”, “Black Heart” and “Empire”.
This is not an album that needs to grow on you. At first listen, you’re hooked! Thru one listen you will notice that they’ve expanded their sound. “Resurrection” is, just as the title suggests, a new beginning for the group and a much superior offering to its predecessor. The uncompromisingly brutal approach doesn’t let up for the duration of the album. Please support Chimaira by visiting
http://www.chimaira.com/ and http://www.ferretstyle.com Thanks, CyPhEr777
