Upon pressure from u2popmofo and IWB, I decided to post my thoughts on AFI's sixth album... here goes
AFI: Sing the Sorrow
Rob Halford would be proud of this agoraphobia-laced triumph. With a variation of styles ranging from goth punk to ambient overtures, AFI's Sing the Sorrow provides selection for even the most discriminating taste.
The album initiates the listener with, the beginning, a song driven by heavy drums and heavy Pink Floyd influence. It's a pretty good indication of the material to follow, compelling you to join the Despair Faction.
On first listen, you notice that it's not the typical punk album; the lyrics are more spiritual, and the guitar is not the driving force behind the music. Adam Carson and Hunter really spotlight the percussion and rhythm sections, featured in songs like Bleed Black and Death of Seasons. Among the listing, the album contains two bonus tracks with a predominantly vocal performance, along with This Time Imperfect.
Standout tracks:
Bleed Black
Led Zeppelin formula for guitar, with various parts of different styles. Reminiscent of TOOL in terms of the opening guitar riffs and bass lines, juxtaposed with punk-style drumming.
Silver and Cold
Lyrics with reference to sacrifice and longing. Iron Maiden power chords influence the presence of the rhythmic guitar at chorus.
Dancing Through Sunday
Worthy for its guitar solo alone.
Death of Seasons
Probably the hardest of the bunch, with Rammstein-like intro, and Judas Priest body. But most impressive for its mix of techno beats and punk riffs.
Leaving Song
The best of the slow songs; contains the simplest, but most interesting guitar part. Probably Davey's best lyric.
Overall good tunes and good record. Well worth the buy for Davey Havok's vocals and lyrics.
Home may be nowhere for these boys, but they are sure carving a niche in the recently hollow punk genre. The goth punk experiment worked, lets hope it doesn't balloon into a fad.