Carnifex
Die Without Hope
Nuclear Blast Records

Call it a comeback. Die Without Hope, the fifth studio album from Carnifex, marks the return of the deathcore quintet from their year long hiatus. Compared to their previous albums, this one is the best by far. Carnifex has grown in their abilities and they have clearly put their all into their latest work. I was immediately drawn in by the heavy, chugging guitars and loud declarations of impending doom. Scott Lewis’s vocals alternate between deep growls and high screams, which adds nice variety. The best song on Die Without Hope is, without a doubt, “Dark Days.” This song features beautifully flowing piano mixed with melodic guitars and of course, the heavy breakdown playing over the line “I am alive in my grave,” in typical Carnifex fashion. Although about halfway through, the songs can become somewhat monotonous, there are no bad tracks on this album. The only thing I didn’t really like was the instrumental interlude before the last track, “Where the Light Dies.” Don’t get me wrong, it builds up suspense beautifully, but it can get annoying when I put this album on shuffle. I’d recommend this album to anyone who’s willing to give the deathcore genre a try. It’s not for everyone, but I think it’s worth a listen.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars