In 2013, I wrote a review of Bullet For My Valentine’s fourth studio album, Temper Temper. Looking back on it, I disagree with parts of it. But I do stand by the fact that I think there was something missing. Lack of solos, maybe? I still don’t know. “Tears Don’t Fall Part 2” was a strong moment, but the record was lacking for many.
Whatever it was that they were missing, one thing is for certain: they’ve found it again on Venom. Holy shit. This could very well be the heaviest and most relentless record yet.
Venom is the Welsh heavy-metal quartet’s fifth studio effort, produced by Colin Richardson. Once you press play, the band clearly make sure that you’re not wasting any time. After a brief build up track entitled “V”, “No Way Out” begins and pulls you into a roller coaster of battering-ram style drums and near-speed metal guitar riffs. “Army of Noise” continues this pattern, perhaps in an even more intensifying fashion than the previous track. “Worthless” exchanges the mosh-pit moments for breakdown-centered riffs, and we don’t question it as vocalist Matt Tuck screams “You’re worthless to me” through the mic.
“You Want A Battle? (Here’s A War)” is more than likely going to be the track that opens up their show on the current Slipknot tour they’ve embarking on in the U.S.A. (I won’t be seeing the show until Wednesday) as it features a chorus and intro that is seeping with desire for fans to chant the lyrics.
The album continues like this throughout the duration of its eleven tracks (or fifteen, if you got the deluxe version). I haven’t felt this much excitement for a BFMV record since The Poison. It’s clear that the band heard the feedback from their fans, and were not only able to give them what they wanted, but also make music that they loved for themselves. Heaviness and epic moments are where Bullet For My Valentine thrive, and it’s what makes them so damn fun to listen to and watch live.
There isn't a single moment that's slowed or toned down on this record, a stark contrast from previous records in their catalog. But I'm not complaining. Not at all.
This has been another Shameless Promotion.