Review: Lamb of God - 'Sacrament'
Posted: 21 August 2006
Contributed By: Nick

Overview: After the uncanny mainstream success of 2004's 'Ashes of the Wake', the kings of metal core from Richmond, Virginia are back with their next brutal onslaught, 'Sacrament'. Lamb of God also unveiled an album under their former moniker, Burn the Priest, in 2005, originally recorded years prior. The band also brought their legendary brand of metal to the stages of Ozzfest, as well as headlining the heralded Sounds of the Underground tour.

The Good: 'Sacrament picks up right where 'Ashes of the Wake' left off. The album kicks you in the throat (see track 5) and never backs down from there. The element of thrash metal is heavily incorporated into 'Sacrament, giving it somewhat of a Pantera-ish vibe at times. Melodic undertones are heavily fused into several tracks, like "Descending" and "Again We Rise". Randy Blythe's vocal range is widened, as seen from the disturbing growls in "Walk With Me In Hell" and the bipolar "Requiem", which features hardcore chants, straight singing, and Blythe's signature scream. 'Sacrament' highlights the talented Will Adler, as his epic solos dominate "Pathetic" and "Forgotten (Lost Angels)".

The Bad: 'Sacrament' feels like only an extension of 'Ashes of the Wake'. Although Lamb of God have grown and developed well beyond their peers with each album, fans may be expecting something more or something new, a feat difficult for a band that has set their own bar so very high. Many tracks like "Requiem" and "Blacken the Cursed Sun" all feature unnecessary whispers and sound bytes, which weigh down this energetic release.

Bottomline: Lamb of God have created another brilliant album with 'Sacrament'. Longtime fans of the band will no doubt be more than satisfied with their pummeling breakdowns and thrash metal tinged sound captured. 'Sacrament' is a very mature and raw step forward from 'Ashes of the Wake', as the band still take their majestic songwriting abilities and slash each listener one by one. From top to bottom, 'Sacrament' will further embellish Lamb of God's repertoire as one of the leaders of today's vast and ever-changing metal scene, and will be for years to come.

Rating: 9 out of 10