| The up and coming Enforsaken are not only
a premier Chicago metal act - they are a gleaming gem amongst the confusing jumble of
stale, run-of-the-mill death metal bands currently inhabiting this country. Mixing a
diverse palette of influences with top-notch songwriting abilities, these guys deliver on
a level directly in line with many of the most popular metal ensembles to date. That's
right. Fans of melodic Swedish death metal should take immediate note, but don't be fooled
by that inevitable tag. What lies beneath the surface of this recording is something
entirely fresh and original with a perfect balance of technique.
For those who love that steady rock-pulse with flawless, flowing guitar solos, it's here.
For those who love the gritty grind and sick vocal wickedness of death metal, it's here.
For those who relish the pounding onslaught of old-school thrash metal, it is here. Those
who are drawn in by tasteful, clean vocals and catchy hooks, prepare to be drawn. And
those who crave the more progressive tendencies, worry not, for it all can be found here.
In addition to this aural eruption of obvious talent, Enforsaken goes the extra mile to
include clever, well-written, thought-provoking lyrics that serve to consummate this
epitome of bitterness and sorrow. However, the package does not end here. Renowned death
metal legend, James Murphy (Death, Obituary, Testament, Cancer, Disincarnate), contributes
a scorching guitar solo to the album's epic conclusion, "All For Nothing".
Additionally, he also mastered this masterpiece. Niklas Sundin, who has worked for such
prestigious bands as In Flames and Arch Enemy, has created the cover art.
Anyone who is familiar with this band's previous release, Embraced by Misery,
will notice a tremendous increase in the production value. The guitars are crisp and
clear, the bass cuts through much better this time around (especially in the clean
passages of songs like "The Forever Endeavor", "A Break From
Tradition", and "Poison Me"), but where the production truly shines on this
album is in the sound of the drums. Overall it's a brilliant mix with no elements
overpowering each other.
Finding something negative to say about this recording is like trying to break concrete
with a twig. Enforsaken may be a relatively new band, but between this and Embraced..,
they have already demonstrated an ability and a willingness to progress and expand their
sound. If Century Media and Olympic can take care of these guys and provide them with the
comfortable home that they deserve, then soon the world will be singing the praise of
Enforsaken.
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