They're back on top where they belong...
After three support bands, the crowd grows impatient at the London Astoria. Not that the collection of people dressed in black didn't enjoy the support acts hand picked by Killswitch Engage- far from it- but these people are here for their favourite band and no amount of brutal the drumming or anger ridden the vocals from support bands will change that fact. As the roadies make the final checks, the crowds press in closer. There's a strong sense of total, blind adoration hanging in the air tonight before Killswitch Engage even takes to the stage.
Soilwork are obviously a death metal type band- their name gives it away. However, their name doesn't tell the curious-yet-uneducated potential listener that Soilwork have far more to offer you than just heavier-than-a-weightloss-meeting music. Soilwork are gifted with the unique talent of knowing exactly when a song needs the soothing hand of melody to stroke down it's back- and exactly when those hackles need to be raised.
Peter Wichers (lead/rhythm guitars) somehow manages to demonstrate his talent clearly without outshining the other members who make up this formidable band who, from the sounds of their sixth studio album, are playing at the very top of their genre.
With any other band, the title track soaring above like a graceful, yet deadly bird of prey would be a worrying sound- how can they top that? But with Soilwork, there is no need for such petty fears. There is not a shadow of doubt that this is their most refined album to date. There's onslaughts of guitar action, intricate drumming as displayed on 'Stalemate' and beautiful vocal shows such as 'Nerve' or the anthemic chorus of 'Distance'.
After playing the album a couple of times over, a pattern emerges- skipping to the odd numbers produces what I'd imagine to be the perfect live combination if you threw in some of Soilwork's past favourites. In every single song on 'Stabbing The Drama', beautiful melodies slide effortlessly against the most brutal, undiluted rage.
Regardless of your favourite bands, there is something on this album you'll find yourself liking. Intelligent, fast paced and determined to remain the unchallenged champions of the melodic death metal scene, Soilwork are ready to rock once more. Be afraid. Be very afraid.