A Sense Of Purpose Review

Release Date: Apr 1, 2008
Label: Koch
Genres: Metal
Number Of Tracks: 12
If you enjoy intensely melodic metal, then this album is most definitely for you.

Sound:	7.6
Lyrics:	6.4
Impression:	7.3
Overall rating:	7.1
Users rating:	7.9
Comments:	125

overall: 9.3

Featured review by: UG Team, on april 01, 2008

Sound: If you listen to classic In Flames records such as ‘Colony’ and ‘The Jester Race’, that helped define the melodic death metal genre, and then listen to more recent tracks like ‘Scream’ or ‘F(r)iend’, the considerable difference can often spark a negative reaction, and has done in In Flames’ core fanbase for years now. But you know what? It doesn’t matter, because ‘A Sense Of Purpose’ is a truly brilliant album, and any critics who are still having trouble getting over the band as they were in 2004 are simply missing out. Their last effort, 2006’s ‘Come Clarity’, was far from poor either, but ‘A Sense Of Purpose’ is the album that In Flames have been threatening to make ever since that oh-so-controversial change in sound.

So, the sound of the album is an interesting one for In Flames fans, any review you read of this album will tell you that they’ve filled the album with lead guitar and the classic harmonies that really set In Flames apart from any pretenders. No matter how hard anyone tries, the sound of Jesper Strömblad and Björn Gelotte is impossible to imitate, as the two have always (that is, since Björn switched from drums to full time guitarist on ‘Colony’) gelled, and their understanding of harmony and their melodic awareness has remained intact since In Flames’ inception in 1990. Sure, it wasn’t that prominent in ‘Reroute To Remain’ or ‘Soundtrack To Your Escape’, but it was always there and since those albums it has really made a return and has become the most important part of In Flames’ music once again.

Not only that, but the clean vocals of Anders Fridén have taken up Jesper’s style of melodic composition, and really work as In Flames melodies. Anyone who has heard songs like ‘Come Clarity’ will be glad to hear that the clean vocals, while a lot more frequent, have actually improved massively. In fact, the vocals as a whole have gotten much better. Anders actually performs with real conviction and strength on ‘A Sense Of Purpose’, and has abandoned the whiny half-assed muttering that truly ruined a lot of songs on ‘Soundtrack To Your Escape’ especially. If you really miss his vocal style as shown with his work with fellow Gothenburg legends Dark Tranquillity, then you won’t be relieved here, but hopefully if you listen to the album openly you will recognise that the vocals here are solid in their own right.

The drumming, as always, is top notch, with Daniel Svensson delivering yet another absolutely stellar performance, and even though his beats are not at all unique to each song, he performs with finesse and brings a lot of the songs to life. Accompanying him in the rhythm section is bassist Peter Iwers. Now, the bass guitar has never, ever been a particularly noticeable part of In Flames’ sound, however Peter’s thick bass tone compliments the multiple layers of guitars over it perfectly and really makes some of the album’s riffs feel incredibly heavy.

You know, even though this new album could be considered a real mixture of their previous work, the sound of the album is very consistent and every single song is enjoyable and valuable: that’s not something that I could say about an In Flames album since ‘Whoracle’. If you enjoy intensely melodic metal, then this album is most definitely for you. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Honestly, the lyrics of ‘Come Clarity’ were pathetic. They were whiny, they were repetitive and they contained countless lines that just made you cringe. While I certainly can’t say that the lyrics on ‘A Sense Of Purpose’ can be compared to the poetry of ‘The Jester Race’, there has been a dramatic improvement. The lyrics still seem to mostly deal with internal struggles and personal issues, however there is only one song on the entire album where the lyrics are so cliché that it actually makes you stop and think what Anders was thinking whilst writing them (and all of their albums since ‘Clayman’ have had several such moments), and that’s on ‘Disconnected’ (“I feel like shit, but at least I feel something” does not do it's anthemic chorus justice), and several of the chorus lines in particular have that quality that really have a lot of power even if you aren’t immediately aware of what they mean, and that’s something that Anders should really be proud of. // 8

Impression: If you have truly hated every bit of music you’ve heard from In Flames since ‘Clayman’, then I can’t say that you will like this album, however if you think that ‘Come Clarity’ was a definite step in the right direction, then you will want to hear this. It’s the album that defines In Flames’ sound as the band that they are today. It’s played with total conviction and it shows that the recording process was a very enjoyable one (and you know this if you’ve watched their in-studio videos). It is, ultimately, just a fantastic In Flames album, boasting 12 songs of the highest quality that acknowledges the band’s history, both distant and recent, and takes them into new places (the eight minute journey ‘The Chosen Pessimist’ is testament to that) that hopefully proves that In Flames have not lost their way. // 10

overall: 8.7

Reviewed by: unregistered, on april 02, 2008

Sound: Many fans have been yearning for a return of The Jester Race era style of In Flames since they traveled from that path on Soundtrack To Your Escape. While this album isn't exactly what they have hoped for, it does serve as a good mix of both old and new In Flames styles which may keep old school fans interested. This album does not disappoint. These Melodeath Godfathers haven't lost their touch. The album is full of the guitar harmonies, melodies, and powerful choruses we'd expect from In Flames and are weaved throughout the album masterfully and the drums are phenomenal as always. They continue to show that they are masters of their craft. The album opens with the single The Mirror's Truth. Although the song is catchy, it's too short. Next is Disconnected, one of the most memorable songs on the album. This song features fast riffs and a powerful, anthemic chorus. Track 3, Sleepless Again, has a brief acoustic intro and is a very solid track. The acoustic guitars are put to better use in Alias with a brilliant bridge. Alias is a great song that features a melody reminiscent of Only For The Weak from Clayman. I could imagine Alias being a live hit, with a chorus you can chant along with.

I am The Highway follows the trend of fast and melodic guitars and a sung chorus. Delight and Angers is another sing-along, anthemic song. Move Through Me has a more heavy feeling than previous songs on the album and has a nice groove to it. The guitar solos are a nice touch, too. The album then takes a bold, progressive step with The Chosen Pessimist. This is the longest In Flames song, clocking in at over 8 minutes. This is a slow ballad with an amazing climax, but it feels almost out of place at this point in the album. It feels like this would be a better album closer. The next song Sober and Irrelevant has a classic In Flames feel to it. The guitar solo in this song is fantastic, but it's over too soon, like some of the other solos on this album. Condemned features a heavy groove and some powerful guitar lines that accompany Anders' voice to make this an outstanding song. Drenched In Fear is this album's highlight song. The chorus reminds me of Reroute To Remain's epic chorus. The clean singing and vocal harmonies really make this song stand out. Some might feel that this song is too poppy, but there is nothing wrong with vocal hooks and melodies. Songs like this are what makes In Flames stand out in the metal world. The last song March To The Shore kind of pales in comparison to it's predecessors. It's a good song, don't get me wrong, but it leaves more to be desired and doesn't seem very fitting to be at the end of the album. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: The lyrics in this album follow the trend set by previous efforts, whereas they focus on internal struggles and conflicts with society. They have improved, though, despite a few lines here and there that come across as whiney. As for vocal skills, Anders does a great job. His raspy voice compliments the music well. // 8

Impression: Overall, A Sense Of Purpose is a fantastic album. It is without a doubt the best album since Clay Man. Possibly better! In Flames did a great job with this album by mixing aspects of their older and newer styles. Some fans of the old In Flames style may get in a butt-hurt over this album and refuse to give it another try, which is a shame. A Sense of Purpose does take time to sink in, and once it does, you can see it for what it really is a masterpiece! // 9

overall: 9.7

Reviewed by: unregistered, on april 01, 2008

Sound: This CD is much more on the progressive side of metal, and takes a turn into being heavy, but really sounds more like Colony/Come Clarity, the drumming has improved! The riffs are catchy and energetic, and none of this CD is sparse (which can be a good or bad thing), there's always noise (no more 2 acoustic guitars). I like it, it still uses keyboards etc, one major difference is the drumming, and the harmonies are still here, from Colony (this is not a TJR remake). // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Anders' lyrics are now back to a more universal sense (instead of just talking about himself, like STYE), and they actually make sense (TJR's lyrics are a joke). The lyrics are mostly social (slightly political), and some are rather personal (and I have no lyrics since I downloaded, but Ander's voice is clear on this CD). The singing is not really lighter or heavier, probably closest to CC (surprise), but still different (just listen to one song and you get the idea). And there is also the use of a back up roar, which sounds great (when Anders sings, a second voice emphasizes whatever he says). Also references to battle clothing I got brand new armor and broken sheilds but it's good lyrics, and good screaming. // 9

Impression: And The Chosen Pessimist ties with Your bedtime story is scaring everyone for the crappiest In Flames song (though the other song was nothing more than a wannabe Illusions, which was done by AILD), and Your bedtime story is scaring everyone was placed at the end as a trash throwaway song, The Chosen Pessimist wastes 8 minutes right in the middle of the album. It reminds me of timeless, but it's just not good. The song picks up momentum at the end, but not enough. Anyway, back to the whole CD. I really enjoy most of the songs (Alias hasn't quite caught on yet), but I can't get enough of Disconnected, March To The Shore and Drenched In Fear, the songs are great. It's still heavy, it's moving towards a kinda sell out catchy stuff that I've already heard, but In Flames is always good, so oh well. And I didn't buy it to start, and I'm poor so I probably won't when it comes out, but it's definetely worth getting. // 10

overall: 1

Reviewed by: MHDrunk, on may 05, 2008

Sound: Wow! This is awesome! In Flames have completely left their nasty sound that characterised their earlier albums and opted for a more mainstream style that draws comparison to forgotten legends such as Evanescence and Linkin Park! I always hated their early stuff, like Subterranean, but A Sense of Purpose is really great metal! They’ve taken out the boring melody and solos and down-tuned their guitars even more so they could sound even more metal! Obviously this shows that In Flames look up to Korn (my favourite band). // 1

Lyrics and Singing: There are some brilliant clean vocals on this that would make Chester (of Linkin Park) himself she'd a tear. Every now and then there are some screams that represent the singer’s troubled childhood and point to an even more extreme metal influence, like Slipknot or early Limp Bizkit. Unfortunately I didn’t have time to listen to the whole thing so I’m not sure if they rapped or not. I hope they did! In Flames even cater for the less extreme among us by every now and then reminding you of bands such as Good Charlotte and Simple Plan with their vocals. // 1

Impression: It is great that Linkin Park released their first album only 8 years ago and already has a legacy in the form of In Flames! It’s not quite as extreme as bands like Slipknot or even the inventors of metal (Korn) but at least they got rid of their stupid melodies! Soon enough, A Sense of Purpose should break the top 40 and appear on the morning video hits TV show, I can’t wait! Some said that metal died in around 2005 when Limp Bizkit sold out but In Flames have revived true metal with this amazing album! // 1

overall: 8

Reviewed by: The JesterHead, on may 02, 2008

Sound: The first thing I noticed when I first heard "The Mirror's Truth" is the fact that the guys are really trying to make up for the lack of lead melody on the newer albums - and they're doing it quite successfully if I may add... I was quite impressed to hear Jesper and Björn doing some serious melody work on each song. One thing that personally thrilled me was the return of the acoustic guitar interludes we oh-so missed in the past few records, which give a folkish, old-school feel to the album. These can be heard as an intro to "Sleepless Again" and an interlude on "Alias".
However, the production quality is somehow weak, at least with the guitars, which seem to have a very weak distortion that kills the overall impression. The other instruments, the drums, bass guitar and the synth are very well made and I've got no complaints what'soever to this part. This would be a 10, if only the guitars were a bit sharper. This is harldy Melodic Death Metal, so if you're expecting a new Jester Race or Whoracle - don't get your hopes up. However, I like to call this album a mix of everything In Flames made since Lunar Strain, as we can hear the melody of the old and the accessibility of the new - a bite for every taste. // 9

Lyrics and Singing: Okay, now for the lyrics. They're not made all that bad, but their idea is sometimes quite irritating. We've heard these kinds of lyrics way too many times, and they're all about Anders' internal struggles and problems. Sure, some people like that - and the fact that they can relate to these songs, but it's already overused and it sometimes seems that they are added just so the song wouldn't be instrumental tracks.
In my opinion, these lyrics are well put, and aside from a few flaws they fit in very well. On the other hand, hearing lyrics like "I feel like shit, but at least I feel something" means something is seriously wrong with our favorite pioneers of Melodic Death Metal, which were introduced to us with those heavily-inspired legendary fantasy/mythology/astrology lyrics we all loved to hear. These lyrics we have today are over-used, and In Flames should really try and be more "global" with them, as "personal" is already old news. // 7

Impression: When all is summed up, we have one decent album. In Flames put quite a lot of effort in this record, obviously trying to please both sides of the coin - the old and the new fans. If you didn't like Reroute To Remain, Soundtrack To Your Escape and Come Clarity, you definetly won't like this, but if you're searching for something new and fresh - I say you buy the record and take a listen. // 8

overall: 9.7

Reviewed by: unregistered, on april 04, 2008

Sound: The sound is much much better then that of Come Clarity. Not to suggest that Come Clarity was terrible, but my main grievances with that album is that it sounds too monotonous. Aside from the title song, you can't distinguish one song from the other. However, A Sense Of Purpose is huge improvement in terms of sounding less monotonous. The guitar work somewhat reflects much of their past works like Whoracle, Clayman, and the Jester Race. If I where to give an accurate description about this album, I would say it's a tie between Clayman and soundtrack to your escape.

01. Mirrors Truth - a great song with great melodic guitar background. It's fast, heavy, and catchy as hell.
02. Disconnected - I know many people don't like the lyrics in this song, but I will have to differ with them by saying this is one of the best in the album. Great song.
03. Sleepless Again - shows how Anders' voice can coexist with the melodies of the guitar. With the opening of a classic Jester Race type acoustic strums, this song takes of to be one of the highlights of the album.
04. Alias - easily the catchiest song of the whole damn album. However, around the middle song, In Flames takes you through a time journey from Sound Track to your Escape to the Jester Race with an amazing guitar strum. It's great, haunting, and catch(again).
05. Delight And Angers - now this song has awesome melodic plucks that lead into the chorus. It's great and one of my favorites of this album.
06. The Chosen Pessimist - here we go. I know many Many people have complained about Ander's voice. I always thought that In Flames somewhat reminicent to Metallica. I know, you are probably cringing, for the bands sound nothing like. However, they are like Metallica by the way they have changed throughout time. Like my feelings toward Metallica, I have zero problem with the direction In Flames has gone to. The Chosen Pessimist is a fine example of how great New In Flames. Many will complain about Ander's voice, but I think this is one of the highlights of his career in a long long time. Ander's and company has to be very proud for creating something different then they ever have before. I like to think of this song as the song that never existed in Come Clarity. Where not for this song, I feel A Sense of Purpose would sound monotonous. This song changes the mood of the album drastically from heavy to epic. Great song and great lyrics.
07. Drenched In Fear - possibly my favorite of the new album. The chorus is incredible and goes real well with the impecabble guitar work. Though it might be a bit short, this truely depicts what In Flames is best at, melodic metal.
08. March To The Shore - finally the closer of the song, ends of with a thrash-melodic type song, where Anders screams "You are a killer" to perfectly end a great album. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: The Lyrics in my opinion are some of Anders' best in a long time. Again people mentioned their grievances they had with the song Disconnected. I, however, find them enjoyable and to be the best they have done since Clayman. The best chorus and lyrics would have to be The Chosen Pessimist. // 9

Impression: If you are looking for a Jester Race Type album, this is not for you. However, if you are open to a new generation of great music by In Flames, I highly suggest you to listen to A Sense of Purpose. Yes the days of Epic Acoustic ballads where amazing, but, like Metallica, that time is long gone. That was the past and this is the present/future. // 10

overall: 1

Reviewed by: Burning_Angel, on may 09, 2008

Sound: With Come Clarity, In Flames made me think perhaps they were going to go back to being more metal, less boring, and sure enough, CC had some excellent tracks. Where the hell did this come from? The music is overall really, really bland. By the end I have trouble recalling any more than one riff. This is probably due to the fact that they wrote one riff and made 12 songs out of it. The drumming is ok, but really far back in the mix, the bass doesn't contribute anything. Worst of all, is the production. The guitars sound way over polished, and lack any punch or heaviness. Also, all the rhythm guitars (which are boring, repetitive chug, if I didn't mention) completely drown most (if not all) of any would-be good melodies. // 1

Lyrics and Singing: I can't be bothered with such meaningless tripe. The lyrics are boring, whiny, mainstream crap, that are a mere shadow in the poetry of the likes of The Jester Race and Whoracle. "I feel like shit, but at least I feel something" is one of the many travesties contained on this recording. Anders has reached a new low with this album. His vocals are whiny as possible, and all around suck. His scream lacks any form of aggression or conviction, and his singing is whiny, and all around grating. They'd be better off kicking out Anders, and getting a real emo vocalist. // 1

Impression: This album doesnt't compare in the slightest with albums like Lunar Strain, The Jester Race, Colony. It's boring, watered down, and uninspired (not to mention repetitive as hell). No songs on this garbage are worth listening to, and I'm really glad I didn't waste 15$ to buy this. Fans of the older style: avoid like the plague. Fans of the new style: enjoy listening in your blissful ignorance. // 1

overall: 9.3

Reviewed by: farfaraway, on april 12, 2008

Sound: A Sense Of Purpose is first of all, probably not what fans of In Flames older sound may appreciate as much, however, many elements included in tracks throughout this album dig into previous styles used in albums such as The Jester Race or Whoracle.

The first track and first single, The Mirrors Truth features a sinister guitar riff that really builds up and complements the song as whole. The lyrics are very visual whilst also indulging in what would seem to be introverted lyrics, but also encroaching on many political themes. Fast and pounding, this track makes a good opener, and a good single.

Disconnected is the second track, the first few riffs are very reminiscent of earlier albums such as The Jester Race, and throughout the chorus the song incorporates a very fresh and bright sound, with high harmonies which sound almost like Reflect The Storm from the previous album, Come Clarity.

Sleepless Again is a slightly slower song and has many Clayman elements within the it, vocally and musically, and the use of synths in the chorus give a Reroute to Remain feel also. The harmonies work well and there are a few very melodical moments from the guitar which work flawlessly with the rest of the song.

Alias has a very strong rythym which sounds like something that could be marched to, and has a more obvious use of synths, which reminds me a lot of Only for the Weak. There are a few slower moments in the verses which the guitars complement well in. A small acoustic section in the song also helps capture the atmosphere, and puts the rest of the song in a different perspective.

I'm The Highway is a faster song with many cool harmonies. The verses feature many hard hitting blasts, which juxtaposes the melodic drifting guitars in the chorus without sounding out of place. There is a small section which the song turns very heavy, and leads into a very bright and almost unexpected solo. Overall the song is a strong and very well built track.

Delights and Angers is a song which has many different sounds throughout, a good use of wah in the verses, and also clean guitars giving a few very melodic lines. The chorus is very sing-alongable, and very powerful. There is a small section which comes almost from nowhere and sounds very new to In Flames, in which the guitars and vocals become very melodic, but also keeping within the context of the song.

Move Through Me features a very hard hitting and powerful intro riff, and a very subtle use of synths. The verses are also fast and feature many cool riffs. The singing is very melodic, complementing the riffs in a different way normally heard. The chorus is very strong, with the use of syths of the guitars. I could expect this song to be the next single.

The Chosen Pessismist would probably be most conceptual song from In Flames so far, going completely out of their usual sound. At 8 minutes long it almost becomes a progressive song. The guitar riffs are very melodic and calm, and with a much larger use of synths as well as the use of violins, this song is extremely atmospheric. There are a few sections which In Flames are completely different, showing taht they are far more complex than just metal. There are a few sections which sound like this could have been a song released by Nine Inch Nails due to the use of very industrial sounding beats and sounds. The song builds and becomes very heavy and dark towards the end. The singing is far different from almost all In Flames songs, with a whole new pitch rarely heard, showing that Anders is more talented than most think. I can see this song maybe stirring up a bit of contraversy amongst the fan base, but with an open mind, as a slow ballad this could be seen as one of the best songs on the album.

Sober and Irrelevant is a song which really has a lot of In Flames older styles in it, drumming and guitaring stretching back to Whoracle days, and has a solo that could have been placed anywhere in their timeline. The singing features a very low death grunt at one point, as well as a melodic chorus. This song is sure to please both fans of older and newer In Flames.

Condemned is a dark song musically. The start reminds me a lot of of The Jester Race. Vocally this song features what is arguably the heaviest track, with very hard hitting verses and a few grunts here and there, the only clean singing really coming in to complement the chorus vocals. There is a breakdown which features a lot of synths, but only really acting as backing to the heavy guitar riffs.

Drenched in Fear sounds very Clayman, with a cool intro riff which has a lot of harmony, leading into a verse that is has guitar riffs very reminiscent of Swim from Clayman. Vocally this song is very soaring, especially in the choruses. At some points there are very ghostly backing vocals creeping in, which have a very Soundtrack To Your Escape feel. The drumming can be quite dull at some points, but this is probably not to draw attention from the guitar riffs.

March To The Shore, the final track (excluding any bonus tracks) is a very fast and strong song. It features elements from almost every sound In Flames have had in previous albums, with elements that sound like Soundtrack to Your Escape's heavier parts, verses with guitar riffs that sound like their earlier heavier guitaring, as well as additional Reroute to Remain-esque riffs, and with a solo that shows the guitarists are very skilled. The vocals in this song are very cool, especially in the chorus, and remind me a lot of the chorus in My Sweet Shadow (probably one of the best parts from STYE).

Bonus tracks are Eraser, Tilt and Abnegation. Eraser has a lot of synth use, but not taking away from the very melodic lead line in the guitar. The vocals are extremely strong and heavy, especially in the chorus lines. The song overall leaves you wondering why it's a mere bonus track.

Tilt is slightly slower, but has a very heavy sound to it, with a lot of blast beats in the verses. The guitar harmonies lead into the chorus very well, and blend flawlessly. Vocally this song is very good, the words are clear yet also screamed very heavily.

Abnegation was originally featured on Viva La Bands, and is included here also. The first riffs sound slightly awkward, but are complemented well by the drums. The choruses are heavier than some other sections of the song, whilst having a very melodic, soaring vocal track over it.

Overall, this album is very conceptual whilst staying in a metal context. The album furthers In Flames distance from what they sounded like in their early days, but is also keeping themselves just as heavy as they always have been. // 10

Lyrics and Singing: Lyrically this album has a lot of ups and downs, as there are some songs which have very poetic and strong visual lyrics, and others that leave you either cringing or thinking you've either misunderstood something or it just doesn't make sense. One track namely being Disconnected, with the line 'I feel like shit, but at least I feel something'. For such a strong song musically, this line tends to drag it down a little. Another part is in the song Sober and Irrelevant, with the line 'is this how it feels to reach rock bottom, want to know how it feels to be forgotten?' This seems awkward and too much of a forced rhyme, and takes away from the flow. Whilst there are the downsides to the lyrics, there are a lot of moments which leave the listener thinking, about themselves and others, and many deep themes and many thought provoking introversions. Anders shows his skills as a singer at many points in this album, going from very heavy screaming to gentle clean melody in an instant, and being able to scream in a way that almost sounds painful to do compared to many other death metal bands. // 8

Impression: Compared to other albums, this album shows In Flames have carved their own niche even more than they already have, further progressing in a new and original sound. Whilst there are many moments you can hear In Flames from older albums as well as newer, this album keeps the feeling and heaviness In Flames hhave always had. The most impressive songs on this album for me are Move Through Me and The Chosen Pessimist. The first time I heard Move Through Me I could barely sit still, the song is so exciting. I'm guessing this will probably be the next single. The Chosen Pessimist appears to be a very personal song, which I think many people will be able to relate to, making it an important track on the album. The thing I like most about this album is that the band have gotten more dynamic than they have in previous albums. A lot of these songs could have fit in well on other albums, and some could never have been released at any other time than now. If I lost this album, I would definetly buy it again, not only for how good the music is, but the beautiful booklet included, including illustrations from Alex Pardee (who previously worked with the likes of The Used and Aiden). This album is a must-have in my collection. // 10

overall: 7.3

Reviewed by: unregistered, on april 11, 2008

Sound: This in flames album is an excellent album. I have one major dissapointment though. The first six or seven songs all use variations of the same exact riff. The riff that is in the intro to mirror's truth is probably the original. If you listen to the next couple songs you can clearly hear the same thing in different variations, speeds, keys, etc. I'm not angry that the same riff is used, I'm mad that there isnt much guitar variation and that I still like the album. // 8

Lyrics and Singing: I haven't listened to the words much. My personal favorite part as far as the vocals go is the intro to the album. When the guitar and drums come in louder and the scream roars in. This is a perfect part in my opinion. The entire album has similar vocals. A little less intense than come clarity but still very cool. // 7

Impression: As to my Overall Impression to this album and quality of the music and tone. I love this album. I think it's much better than a lot of the other stuff that's new right now. There isn't much stuff that combines excellent music with very good vocals. The albums with good guitar parts and riff variety have crappy vocals. The albums with good vocals don't have good music to back it up. Overall I give this album a seven. // 7

Comments

[SOADwannabe]

first?
anyway, i love the new album as well as their sound on Come Clarity.
If you're a fan of their old work you probably will hate how they have changed.

[fecefeast]

First...
cool, I might check it out. Im not a huge In Flames fan but It looks promising

[fecefeast]

Edit.
not first, damn

[Matt_1213]

This album is brilliant. It makes me smile when the 'true death-metallers' rag on Flames for being 'generic', when they forget that they helped establish the genre in the first place. Doubtless they'll be posting below soon enough

[Vanhanen]

Come Clarity is better i Thing, but this album is still great!

[jester ed]

Anders ruins this otherwise ok album. The vocals are predictible and just boring but there are at least a couple of good moments instrumentally.

[legato boy]

great album! 'alias', 'condemned', 'the mirrors truth', 'the chosen pessimist' and 'drenched in fear' are excellent

[touji-za-nai]

this album rocks!! takes some getting use to just because it is yet another change of tone for in flames but i still love it!! 8.5/10

[evilbeavil]

have yet to hear it, great review regardless though

[dsaanm]

Been waiting for this album for some time and I didn't get disaponted in the result. Great review.

[*toki*]

sounds awsome! in flames rule and they keep getting better with every album

[say5ss2]

new album? Mehh... Although they have returned slightly to their original roots but i have to say that the vocals are just appalling... i mean cmon its just dry whinny and just sounds wrong.....

[KoRnBitch]

Every kind of In Flames is ****ing great. OLD & NEW.

ASOP is a great album, I love it.

[thecameronator]

that 2nd review, made me cringe... i mean, he/she has there own opinion, but calling the jester races lyrics "a joke" and saying they didnt make sense? *shakes head*

[Perpetual Burn]

Didn't really like it...was quite disapointed.

[emr_steelmech]

thecameronator wrote:

that 2nd review, made me cringe... i mean, he/she has there own opinion, but calling the jester races lyrics "a joke" and saying they didnt make sense? *shakes head*

+1. First review was very good and thorough however.

[Benjibum]

I dont like old in flames... I guess that makes me a worse fan than those other gus who only like their old stuff, huh?

No one has posted their hardcore dedication to old In Flames yet... Hurry up!

[legot]

I love both their old and new stuff,and this album is just greaaaat!!
Well...It's In Flames^^

I'll never get enough from Colony and Jester Race,though^^

[Perpetual Burn]

Benjibum wrote:

I dont like old in flames... I guess that makes me a worse fan than those other gus who only like their old stuff, huh?

I heart old In Flames!!!

No one has posted their hardcore dedication to old In Flames yet... Hurry up!

[GMR5]

This album isnt that good imo.

[ShoeFaceBass]

New album = Not very good

waaaaay to whiny, just like Come Clarity.

I dont think they'll ever top Whoracle, that's just a really badass album.

[+}-136-{+]

I'm definitely going to check this out. Although the guitar melodies of 'Come Clarity' weren't that good, the vocal melodies were. Hopefully there'll be a mix of that in this album.

[[x]Huffy[x]]

This album is pretty cool, thir best since Clayman IMO.
IN FLAMES WE TRUST.

[r04ch]

the start of sleepless again is awesome with the acoustics.

[hitek008]

they been around for long time so they gradually progess with their sound...so what...still havent heard the new album, OLD&NEW in flames still badass

[adamdrulz]

Yup, best album in a long time for them, I find it also as one of their softest, not by much, and neither is that a bad thing. The Mirror's Truth is a fantastic single. One of the 3 best metal albums released this year.

[adamdrulz]

Yup, best album in a long time for them, I find it also as one of their softest, not by much, and neither is that a bad thing. The Mirror's Truth is a fantastic single. One of the 3 best metal albums released this year.

[MassacreDeicide]

Whoracle, Lunar Strain, Come Clarity, and A Sense of Purpose... yeah, good shit. and who was the kid who said that Anders' vocals screwed up the album... **** that, he has been the voice of In Flames and Sweden for 12 years, almost 13... get used to it kid. if you wanna post hate mail, throw it in fall Out boys direction...

[Josh Laiho]

THIS GODDAMN ALBUM SUCKS!!! YOU ARE A STUPID FUCK IF YOU LIKE ANY OF IN FLAMES NEW SHIT!!!

[Stuminton]

Josh Laiho wrote:

THIS GODDAMN ALBUM SUCKS!!! YOU ARE A STUPID FUCK IF YOU LIKE ANY OF IN FLAMES NEW SHIT!!!

i conclude you do not like it

[chris_libby_88]

the album doesnt suck, but it is super poppy sounding. i dont really like it, except for a few riffs and solos

[whitesummer527]

yea man I feel the same, it just feels watered down almost.

[whitesummer527]

and to say Anders lyrics were a joke on the Jester Race is complete BS! Does anyone else hate the new lyrics he writes? its always the same thing, he can't sleep or hes trying to escape. There is no imagery or imagination really, anyone troubled 14 year old could write them.

[unbridled03]

First off, the second review is moronic.
Second, this isn't an awful album. I think it had a lot of promise but in MY opinion the vocals suck the creativity out of the songs with predictability. We all know there's going to be Anders singing in the choruses... They do make a better attempt at solos and some of the riffs are catchy, but I cannot get over the fact that sometimes Anders sounds like Jonathan Davis. Take for example "Alias" Listen to it and tell me it doesn't sound like Davis making a cameo. I'm not at all disappointed. I've realized that they will never make another "Colony" or "Whoracle". You just kinda have to take them as they are. Bands change for whatever reasons. These guys still put on a hell of a show and are one of my favorite bands of all time. I just don't enjoy their Post "Clayman" music as much.

[unbridled03]

Well obviously they're trying to grab a new younger audience and the "angsty" "simple" lyrics will hit home for a lot of the 14 year olds who like to pretend to hate everything.

[Colchester91]

I haven't got it yet but I gather it's not like they're old stuff. That's disappointing. They're new stuff is fine. It's just not the excellence of Whoracle or Colony. I guess 'The New In Flames' is like a beer with no head. Sure it's nice, but it just isn't special anymore.

[skyillusion]

First off, I would like to say that this album is amazing, definitely reminiscent of their old days, as well as a good mixture of the newer albums. And I don't think any of the albums have been awful, they all have their gems on it, some just more so than others. I don't understand why so many people hated Soundtrack t your Escape and Come Clarity, I've been a fan on In Flames for a long time and one of my favorite songs is from Soundtrack to Your Escape.

Regardless, bands change for reasons unbeknownst to us, just take the album as it is, it definitely has its moments.

[chaseNbadguys]

I am so there! I have been waiting for this to come out and am going to buy it right now!

[stumaster18]

downloading this right now.
then it either gonna buy it or delete it.
I hate the prices of metal albums these days. such a rip off.

[MrTin]

r04ch wrote:

the start of sleepless again is awesome with the acoustics.

+1

And am I the only one who likes both their new and old stuff equally? I mean I love the guitar harmonies of Swim but I still really like the chorus of The Mirror's thruth.

[atomicblast]

Yeaaaaah... Bedtime Story was probably one of In Flames ' best songs since who knows when.

This album is much more solid than even Come Clarity, and unlike CC, I've actually been listening to this one. It's not an album of the past, but it's good enough for a few spins.

[atomicblast]

Yeaaaaah... Bedtime Story was probably one of In Flames ' best songs since who knows when.

This album is much more solid than even Come Clarity, and unlike CC, I've actually been listening to this one. It's not an album of the past, but it's good enough for a few spins.

[flemflames]

I've given it a chance, and I conclude:

GODDAMN! BRING BACK THE DAYS OF EPISODE 666!!!

[Lloyd2]

They still play Episode 666 and Graveland live \m/
BTT: The new album is great and for me it'S the best since Clayman. I love the catchiness of the first 7 songs and the Speed and dynamic of the last 4. More Leads Some accoustic parts and 0,96 seconds growling XD.

[Douglas_Kouslak]

I like in flames. No matter how their music has changed. This album is not my favourite, but there is still a lot of goods songs.

[unbridled03]

Ever since I heard "Acoustic Medley" years ago, I've always wanted them to do an acoustic album.

[I_Am_In_Flames]

I'm obviously a big In Flames fan, & i prefer their new stuff over the old.. It's melodic, energetic & i love it.

[Delanoir]

April Fool's, right?

because this album is actually quite mediocre.

[unbridled03]

Well certainly not a 9.5 OR 9.7!

[Kreuger]

I enjoyed every album (or select songs from each) until this snoozefest came out.

[The JesterHead]

The new album would be excellent in every way, but the "I feel like shit, but at least I feel something" part was close to destroying the entire album... Those are the worst lines In Flames has ever made, although the rest of the song is really not bad... Anyway, the album is really good, if only the lyrics were less personal - it's kinda boring to hear the same stuff for the last 8 years...

[Confetti]

The new album is just bad.
There isn't even one great song on it.
The melodies and rifs were both boring and unoriginal in my head. Or they might have been very original but if they were then both sucked hard. The album in whole didn't give me anything.

The clean vocals suck aswell on thisalbum.

[flame843]

I like this one a lot better than Come Clarity..I dunno why you guys are saying it's so whiny, I think it's a lot ballsier especially in the second half. March to the Shore? Not even remotely whiny.

[Mate.Feed.Kill.]

Matt_1213 wrote:

This album is brilliant. It makes me smile when the 'true death-metallers' rag on Flames for being 'generic', when they forget that they helped establish the genre in the first place. Doubtless they'll be posting below soon enough

In Flames didn't pioneer death metal, they helped pioneer in the gothenburg era but the certainly weren't the first (see Entombed, Dark Tranquility). I like the first better The Jester Races lyrics were amazing. I'm definitely gunna check it out as long as it isn't another soundtrack, which I'm hearing it might be.

[flame843]

Mate.Feed.Kill. wrote:

In Flames didn't pioneer death metal, they helped pioneer in the gothenburg era but the certainly weren't the first (see Entombed, Dark Tranquility). I like the first better The Jester Races lyrics were amazing. I'm definitely gunna check it out as long as it isn't another soundtrack, which I'm hearing it might be.

It's not really anything like Soundtrack. It's most similar to a mix of Clayman and Come Clarity with a little more synth.

[Harmonix123]

Personally, I think their new sound is great. It sounds a little cleaner than their previous albums.

[Pretty_Much]

it doesnt come out till April 4th

[duncang]

Mate.Feed.Kill. wrote:

Matt_1213 wrote:

This album is brilliant. It makes me smile when the 'true death-metallers' rag on Flames for being 'generic', when they forget that they helped establish the genre in the first place. Doubtless they'll be posting below soon enough

In Flames didn't pioneer death metal, they helped pioneer in the gothenburg era but the certainly weren't the first (see Entombed, Dark Tranquility). I like the first better The Jester Races lyrics were amazing. I'm definitely gunna check it out as long as it isn't another soundtrack, which I'm hearing it might be.

Hah, since when did Entombed pioneer the Gothenburg sound?

[Ibzman]

Sorry but I'm disappointed by the album. Come Clarity was better.

[jerkoffjack]

the only thing the new In Flames CD is good for is a beer coaster.

[onslaughton]

just got the cd and i have to say some of the songs are a little repetative, but those that are good, are amazing
anders bjorn and jesper show their brilliance as they attempt to bring back a fan base that was lost over a few awful records
i personally love the cd for several titles, alias being the best
and im glad to say that the acoustic interludes they are famous for makes an appearance

[rebofthetemple]

much better than CC in my opinion, though some of the songs do sound repetitive. Condemned and The Chosen Pessimist are enough to get me to buy this album

[Res.urrect.ion]

I'm sick of people constantly comparing their new stuff to the old. Everyone knows the old stuff is better!!
Although...saying that, i do think that this album kicks some serious ass

[Baronobeefdip]

MrTin wrote:
And am I the only one who likes both their new and old stuff equally? I mean I love the guitar harmonies of Swim but I still really like the chorus of The Mirror's thruth.

You are not alone my friend. I LOVE OLD AND NEW In Flames! YOU'RE NOT IN THE BAND, THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT, SO GET OVER IT!!!

flemflames wrote:
I've given it a chance, and I conclude:
GODDAMN! BRING BACK THE DAYS OF EPISODE 666!!!

Agreed. I think that would be awesome if they made a cd with their new style and TJR/Whoracle vocal/growling the lyrics. That also would have been pretty cool if they'd have mixed that vocal style into CC and ASOP. Again... YOU'RE NOT IN THE BAND, THERE'S NOTHING YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT, SO GET OVER IT!!!

[uberphreak]

First review very helpful and informative.

Second review... why did you even bother?

Anyway, good review first guy. I like this album personally but I DEFINITELY agree with you about the line in Disconnected, I thought the same thing.

And to the majority of these posters... 'different' doesn't mean 'bad' at all. In any way. It's one thing to have a preference for either the old or new stuff, but you can't argue against the fact that these guys have talent and the music is good.

[dimebag84]

I must admit I absolutely hated this at first, a total disappointment, especially the dreadful vocals. However the more you listen, you realise there are some nice acoustic melodies (a la old skool in flames) and solos on all but 1 song (which is more than last 3 albums put together!) For the old school fans, its very different, yet again, give it a chance, however, you will not love it, you will find it mediocre, as I have.
As first reviewer said, if you liked the sound on Come Clarity, then you will love this album. Basically, take this as a different band, dont compare it.

[JRowe3388]

This album is great. Easily the best since Clayman. Hell, maybe better!

This album needs more than one listen to sink in. Give it time fellas!

[StoneColdCrazy]

Hey, never heard any In Flames but I am interested in them. I am not a fan of Death Metal vocals, would this album be a good place to start with them, and maybe slowly work backwards?? Just wondering. If anyone could help me out, it would be appreciated.

[drakenshadow]

i like this album. i don't really dislike any of their albums. i like them all. some more than others but i like them all.

[im not mental]

they got my hopes up after come clarity, but this album, while it had its moments, was quite a letdown.

[AXE187]

alias = best song on it

[DP_SF_DTX_RATM]

eh, it alright, too mainstream for me

[xXChimairaXx]

It just pisses me off that In Flames didn't really start getting popular until around the "Soundtrack to Your Escape" album, which they took a lot of heat for.

I don't mind that they changed into a more modern sound, but none of this stuff is even remotely impressive compared to the jester race/colony days. they were just amazing then. hopefully they'll play some of that stuff at gigantour \m/

[Savage Animal]

lol april fools this album sucks

[Ultimatemetal]

AXE187 wrote:

alias = best song on it

I thought Im the highway was the best

[flame843]

StoneColdCrazy wrote:

Hey, never heard any In Flames but I am interested in them. I am not a fan of Death Metal vocals, would this album be a good place to start with them, and maybe slowly work backwards?? Just wondering. If anyone could help me out, it would be appreciated.

Anders Friden screams a lot. He only did death metal growls on his first few albums with the band...on this album most of his vocals are sort of half-singing, half-screaming...it's actually pretty listenable vocal-wise, usually he's a little overbearing but not here.

If you start with this album, just bear in mind that a lot of people consider In Flames' heyday to be back in the nineties when their sound had more more metal and less rock to it. It's a fine album to start with but you'll probably end up liking their older stuff better.

[metallica72487]

heard some of it on myspace seems like a good album probally not as good as come clarity though but seems like it would be worth getting but i prefer there new sound over just doing death metal vocals all the time

[Harmonix123]

Honestly, I think the vocals in this album have improved. It's more likeable with the cleaner sound.

[metallica72487]

Savage Animal wrote:
lol april fools this album sucks

she was living in a single room with three other individuals.
One of them was a male and the other two, well, the other two were females.
God only know what they were up to in there.
And furthermore susan, I wouldnt be the least bit surprised to learn that all four of them
Habitually smoke marijuana cigarettes... reefers

[StoneColdCrazy]

thanks flame843, might go and have a listen to it. Cheers

[llanafreak44]

I LOVE old In Flames, but I LIKE new In Flames. The album was kind of repetitive sounding. The first two songs sound so similar in the choruses.

[rahnercore]

i jumped on the in flames bandwagon pretty late in the game (around the release of come clarity)...but after listening to older stuff and newer stuff...i gotta say, i like the newer stuff a little better. don't get me wrong, old stuff is kickass...i happen to like the direction they're going in now

[Mr. President]

What a well written review for such a horrible album.

[staind_dust87]

Why can't fans understand that people change and there music style and taste changes, In Flames will never sound like they did on The Jester Race, so get over it, if you hate everything they've done since there first CDs then your not much of a fan anyway. I like this new album, but I don't think it's not near as good as come clarity, which I think is one of the best metal albums ever. But still, good album.

[IfDaysEnd]

duncang wrote:

Mate.Feed.Kill. wrote:

Matt_1213 wrote:

This album is brilliant. It makes me smile when the 'true death-metallers' rag on Flames for being 'generic', when they forget that they helped establish the genre in the first place. Doubtless they'll be posting below soon enough

In Flames didn't pioneer death metal, they helped pioneer in the gothenburg era but the certainly weren't the first (see Entombed, Dark Tranquility). I like the first better The Jester Races lyrics were amazing. I'm definitely gunna check it out as long as it isn't another soundtrack, which I'm hearing it might be.

Hah, since when did Entombed pioneer the Gothenburg sound?

Anders was on Dark Tranquility...
They exchanged vocalists a long time ago...

[Confetti]

flame843 wrote:

I dunno why you guys are saying it's so whiny

Because we think so?

[Matt_1213]

IfDaysEnd wrote:

duncang wrote:

Mate.Feed.Kill. wrote:

Matt_1213 wrote:

This album is brilliant. It makes me smile when the 'true death-metallers' rag on Flames for being 'generic', when they forget that they helped establish the genre in the first place. Doubtless they'll be posting below soon enough

In Flames didn't pioneer death metal, they helped pioneer in the gothenburg era but the certainly weren't the first (see Entombed, Dark Tranquility). I like the first better The Jester Races lyrics were amazing. I'm definitely gunna check it out as long as it isn't another soundtrack, which I'm hearing it might be.

Hah, since when did Entombed pioneer the Gothenburg sound?

Anders was on Dark Tranquility...
They exchanged vocalists a long time ago...

I didn't say they were the only ones. But they certainly contributed.

[Driven9]

I love that even the In Flames fan base can be critical of an ablum and still love it. i think it shows true fan-ship. to see fans growing with a band like In Flames is absolutly awsome. i give it a 8.5/10

[danielrobbyshor]

I'm listening to it now.
and I like it.
its a long way from Come Clarity definitely.
I don't think it's better than Come Clarity though, Come Clarity was their best album to date. regardless of what you tr00 fans may think

[dopisen]

I like it, not as good as the colony times but its far more better than come clarity imo. Over and out.

[piratefdu]

I was pleasantly surprised by this album. Songs like I'm the Highway and Sober and Irrelevant (which IMO has the best opening riff ive heard from IF since Morhping into Primal) were standouts to me. They sort of re-added some of the cooler elements of the older stuff such as melody and harmony, but not enough of it. Theres some filler here, but its a decent album.

[flame843]

Confetti wrote:

flame843 wrote:

I dunno why you guys are saying it's so whiny
Because we think so?

i.e. I don't know why you think it's so whiny.

[The JesterHead]

They say it's whiny because of the lyrics and the way Anders -sometimes- sings them. It can really be whiny, but in no way does that mean the album is bad, this album is great IMO.

[KJKINFLAMES]

goin to see in flames april 30th so ill get to see the new album in full force mabey ill wright a review after .... good reviews. i personally enjoyed the album and will add it to the collection

[steve_a7x]

very good album, but not as good as previous albums.

[The_Big_A]

Sounds pretty badass. i'll most defineitly have to go get it

[TheAmenCorner89]

I've listened to the album once, it hasn't fully sunk in yet but it seems to be on a similar level to Come Clarity, as in not as good as the 1st five albums but still heading upwards. I don't think any of their albums are bad but I prefer the older stylings. I would say the album would be alot better if Anders didn't whine so much and actually did a proper growl

[y-e-a-r-z-e-r-o]

ok ... i come to you all as kind of a noob...
i was introdused to in flames with the album soundtrack to your escape and i liked it (mostly the quitet place, a touch of red and my sweet shadow) but then i got come clarity and i was obsessed with it for the longest time...i have scince gotten whoracle, clayman and colony (whoracle being my favorite) i was very excited to get the new in flames cd when i heard about it and i like it alot... Delight and Angers is my favorite .... the chosen pessimist WAS awsome ... and so was dissconected .... i guess im a big fan of anders' "whining", but if you want to bitch about whining go to fall out boy or hawthorne heights.... in flames is an amazing band...

[The JesterHead]

Well, ASOP is kinda like a combinations of all their albums from Lunar Strain to Come Clarity, which I think is pretty cool. It can please everyone in a certain amount, and is (along with Come Clarity) definetly their best work since Clayman. The guys are going in the right direction after a few (very) wrong turns, and I'm anxious to see how it will all turn out in the future

[ParkerScks]

this band never fail

[salsawords]

Generally, the old stuff is much better than the new stuff. Come Clarity got stale for me after a couple weeks, and it is a bit whiny. Hopefully this album has some good solos, they've been lacking them since Clayman. By the way, am I the only one who love Soundtrack?

[spoonylove90]

just picked this up yesterday. seriously good. a solid 9/10 from me.

[GoWithTheFlow]

why cant heavy metal fans deal with change in a band. i can understand if the music starts to suck but when it changes and sounds fresh and new instead of predictable and overdone. lack of diversity is the downfall of music as we know it. Anyways i think im one of the few people who like almost all of in flames' music, new and old. of course they have some sucky stuff but so does everyone. yeah not going anywhere with this one. please dont ban me or unsheath your banhammers of banishment or whatever.

[The JesterHead]

GoWithTheFlow wrote:

why cant heavy metal fans deal with change in a band. i can understand if the music starts to suck but when it changes and sounds fresh and new instead of predictable and overdone. lack of diversity is the downfall of music as we know it. Anyways i think im one of the few people who like almost all of in flames' music, new and old. of course they have some sucky stuff but so does everyone. yeah not going anywhere with this one. please dont ban me or unsheath your banhammers of banishment or whatever.

Don't be ridiculous, man - everyone has a right to have his own opinion

salsawords wrote:

Generally, the old stuff is much better than the new stuff. Come Clarity got stale for me after a couple weeks, and it is a bit whiny. Hopefully this album has some good solos, they've been lacking them since Clayman. By the way, am I the only one who love Soundtrack?

You're not the only one who loves STYE... The thing about that album is the fact that In Flames made a sort of an album with a "more approachable" sound that can attract the masses. That's why all the "tr00 fans" hated it, because all In Flames represented from Lunar Strain to Clayman was kinda gone here... Thankfully, Come Clarity and ASOP seem to put them back in track

[whatiaminstead]

personally, ive loved everything that In Flames has ever put out, though I do enjoy their old stuff more. But there are things about each album that i absolutely love and they have something for absolutely anyone. I think Purpose could have been more adventurous this time around (there was more intensity in Clarity) but its good to hear twin guitars again and im growing to love this album as well.

[paperpl8]

better than CC...but i like all of their stuff, i do personally like the old lyrics better. although the phrase in disconected isnt very good at all

[paperpl8]

edit: what i meant to say was..."i like all of their lyrics, but the old ones were better."

[The JesterHead]

paperpl8 wrote:

better than CC...but i like all of their stuff, i do personally like the old lyrics better. although the phrase in disconected isnt very good at all

Yeah, I think those lines in Disconnected are the worst 10 seconds In Flames has ever created with their music... "I feel like shit, but at least I feel something" is really the worst shit they've ever written, although the rest of the song AND the album is really not bad...