Resolution kicks off with a blood curdling scream delivered by Randy Blythe on opening track Straight from the Sun; a slow dirgy feedback laced grind. Immediately I was caught off guard by the track as it stands as a brief departure from Lamb of God’s usual groove oriented sound. A flurry of fills and double kicks delivered cleanly and with authority by drummer Chris Adler finish off the track and set the pace for the rest of the album.
Lamb of God’s immediately recognizable sound comes into focus with second track Desolation. Chris’ hollow popping snare sounds so unique, I’ve only heard it within this band. The guitar riffs are all here too, there is so much groove on this album I can’t help but think the spirit of Pantera lives on and is burning strong within this band. Dime influenced riffs are peppered through-out the record and Randy does Phil proud. I think his stage presence, vocal style and lyrics are all heavily influenced by Mr. Anselmo. Randy delivers with a very unique voice though, his sound is all his own and a testament to the bands success. As such a powerful and unique sounding vocalist, the band certainly wouldn’t be the same without him. Building on his vocal performance from Wrath, Randy experiments with his voice even more on this album. All positives in my mind. Vocal diversity is a must for a band with screamy hardcore vocals which get monotonous without variety.
Listening to bonus live track Vigil, I’m reminded of my Lamb of God concert experience, the one that turned me on to the band. Lamb of God deliver such a tight and focused live performance, it feels as though you’re being machine gunned by their precise attack. I think Lamb of God are one of those rare bands that actually sound better live than they do on their albums. The albums can’t replicate the sheer power and precision of their live shows.
Is this album as good their last offering Wrath? That’s a question I cannot answer yet. I’ve had years to fully digest Wrath, my favourite album from the band. Resolution is packed with enough songwriting quality and intensity to become a solid contender and possible heir to the throne in my mind.
