Like taking a page out of the Bible, Ohio metal outfit Chimaira has risen from what appeared to be the imminent death of their band. The group reunited with original drummer Andols Herrick and released "Resurrection," an album with the potential to elevate them to the top of the metal world.
With ferocity not heard since early Slayer, and thrash not felt since we "rode the lightning," "Resurrection" plays out like a non-stop audio beatdown. The opener and title track "Resurrection" immediately alerts listeners that Chimaira is back with a vengeance. Lead guitarist Rob Arnold sets the pace with an intense riff that thrashes its way to an undeniably catchy, yet gloomy and gothic chorus fueled by vocalist Mark Hunter's lyrical spite and Chris Specuzza's dark keys.
"We have become so goddamn powerful/all the beatings you gave us/we will use them against you," Hunter screams.
"Pleasure in Pain" and "Worthless" follow suit with fast paced riffs and vicious lyricism.
The fourth track on the album, ironically titled "Six," is not only the highlight of this release, but the pinnacle of Chimaira's musical career as well. It's their "Fade to Black."
As it builds off a slow, Middle Eastern-tinged intro and escalates into headbanging madness, one cannot help but be reminded of how metal used to be. Just after the four minute point a chant erupts and fades into a deliciously metallicaesque solo that continues for another four minutes before giving the chorus one last go. Simply put, it's epic.
"The Flame" is easily the most brutal track on the album. It begins with glass shattering and a horrifying scream that'll send a cold chill down the warmest of spines. Arnold's innovative guitar work plays off the scream and incorporates it into the background of the song. Not since early Slayer have listeners witnessed a song whose nature and lyrical content are as sadistic as this.
"I'm gonna pound you into oblivion / I will make you f*cking bleed / There is no escaping me / This is your destiny," Hunter sings.
The closing track "Empire" brings the album full circle as it returns to "Resurrection's" larger than life, gothic sound. Building off a chant-laden intro, Hunter screams his way to Arnold's last hurrah and as the song reaches its final big breakdown, it fades into nothing.
"Resurrection" has done just that to Chimaira's career. Thanks to the return of their prodigal drummer and a return to the roots of the genre, Chimaira has not only delivered their best album to date, but also given us the first great metal release of 2007.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
