Children of Bodom // Review
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CD: Smile Pretty for the Devil Released: 01 December 2008 |
After the release of Are You Dead Yet? caused an ernourmous rift between old and new Bodom fans, the Finns had a lot to prove with their latest release Blooddrunk and not only attempted but were successful in creating a forge of American thrash metal with the old familiarity of their native Finnish sound. The keyboards are back in full force, the bass lines are fiercer than ever and this album should hopefully please most people.
Smile Pretty for the Devil is an exquisite choice for a single, as it demonstrates this middle ground perfectly. Elements of chuggy guitars and complex riffs that are harsh, heavy and even punk-esque in places, mixed with Henkka's clear, concise bass and Alexi's never-withering vocals. The traditional American breakdown is still present but is mixed up with the best keyboard solo on the album that is organic, classical and may even rival those on Hatebreeder.
Good old-fashioned speed metal with elements of intensity and raw power. Give it a chance, old school fans, this one might even grow on you.
Review by Kate Stulberg
Track Listing
| Smile Pretty for the Devil |
[01] Smile Pretty for the Devil |
Buy From
Children of Bodom's Officlal Site
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Other Reviews
Astoria, London, UK // 08 March 2008