Machine Head – "Øf Kingdøm and Crøwn"

Another reason why "Øf Kingdøm..." (giggle) sounds so fresh could also be the fact that long-time guitarist Phil Demmel and much longer-time drummer Dave McClain left the band in the wake of its failed predecessor. Flynn, then, brought along some, perhaps, long-needed young blood, drummer Matt Alston and, not the least, guitarist Wacław "Vogg" Kiełtyka from Decapitated. And holy shit, do those guys wail.

One stand-out is definitely the death grind-blasting "Becøme the Firestørm" (tee-hee), featuring insane drum fills and guitar solos, and probably Flynn's angriest vocals to date. Also the straightforward thrash-rock of "Bløødshøt" (hahah!), co-written by Kiełtyka, is a wonderful face punch with its catchy clave rhythm hook straight up front. The multi-vocals at the end, featuring both shouting, screams, and growls, make it sound like how everyone's grandma imagines all metal.

In fact, there are several of these memorable stand-out elements throughout. The interchanging between the almost Gregorian-like vocals and the cut-throat chugging in "My Hands Are Empty" is a cool effect. The long, drawn-out vocal lines in the chorus of (giggle) "Nø Gøds, Nø Masters" might be the catchiest thing Flynn's written in more than a decade. (I mean, not that I would know, but still.)

Regardless of "Catharsis" being a failed album or not, I'd say most people damn well oughta be on board this time. Because this just plain rocks.

As with a lot of metal these last 10-15 years, the pure, enjoyable aggression somewhat makes up for the lack of originality here. The biggest problem I might have with Machine Head's 10th album is that it relies a bit heavily on those long worn-out staples from those long worn-out bands that Flynn himself inspired.

Like the interchanging between shouting and clean vocals. In fact, in certain places, Flynn's vocals have become more and more reminiscent of those from people like Serj Tankian, Corey Taylor, and (groan) Matt Heafy. Sure, he's growing as a vocalist, and it does suit him. But man, that interchanging between shouting and clean vocals...

Then there are the breakdowns. And again, don't get me wrong: This is not Killswitch Engage level jock metal, but it does come pretty close sometimes. Being one of the originators of that long flogged-apart breakdown, Flynn does make them sound natural rather than forced; he doesn't rely upon them like too many others to mention. But in 2022, it's still impossible for me to hear a breakdown without kinda feeling like I'm watching another rerun of "Friends".

Still, though. Overall, the damn thing works. Solid songwriting; tight-as-nails interaction within the band; sick fucking solos from both Flynn and Vogg, and an aggression so savage it's almost palpable. Boom, there ya go: A good metal album. In fact, a bit better than good.

"Øf Kingdøm..." is not the grand reinvention of the band that "Catharsis" was supposedly trying (too hard) to be. But maybe that's all for the better. Because it's a solid return to form, and that's what the band needs at this point.

(... Heheh, "Øf"!)