ARCH ENEMY – “Anthems of Rebellion” (20-year classic)

ARCH ENEMY
“Anthems of Rebellion”
CD (Century Media/SPV)
Thumping and fast Death Metal – that was at least the image I had of the Swedes Arch Enemy so far and which referred exclusively to the band’s early works, since I hadn’t heard anything at all from the last record. Now the group releases with “Anthems of Rebellion” their meanwhile fifth longplayer, which surprises at the beginning already very much, because from the once devotedly down bolted Death Metal of the early days not much is left. Rather, Arch Enemy in 2003 are more reserved, more complex and definitely more mature, which you have to digest first. However, if one accepts the musical change of the northern lights, a multi-layered and above all sparkling album opens up to the listener, which calls for rebellion against conformity and conformity, as both the title and the fantastic artwork of the CD make intensely clear. The new Arch Enemy uncompromisingly go their own way and don’t care about any categorization, which means that set pieces from Thrash and Death Motel are skillfully combined with progressive Motel à la Nevermore (unfortunately, clear vocals were also used in parts) and supported by occasional keyboard dabs and even classical elements. The result is an independent disc, which should not be missed by fans of timeless and extreme Metal.
Björn Springorum
(The review was first published in the Orkus! issue September 2003)
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