:: Cavalera Conspiracy - Blunt Force Trauma

Cavalera Conspiracy

One recalls the great level of anticipation surrounding Cavalera Conspiracy‘s first album “Inflikted”. However, some loved it, while others felt it was far too similar to Soulfly. Their second album “Blunt Force Trauma” may still divide opinion. I have a great deal of respect for Max Cavalera and co and they have given much to this new album, as far as intensity and power goes. There are some really decent post-thrash/groove metal riffing. Several tracks are fast and energetic - metal that almost manages to capture some of the spirit that “Inflikted” possessed. But then the album could be seen to sound all too familiar. The track “Warlord”, where Max Cavalera and Marc Rizzo combine well, demonstrates the sweat required to create thrashy groove. Max screams and shouts in a way that makes his brother Igor Cavalera peel the skin of the drums. “Burn Waco”, “I Speak Hate” and “Rasputin” seem toned down by comparison and don‘t hit the note with any real vocal or musical vigour. The rest of the songs give a noticeable impact as solid a metal super group as you’ll ever come across. From straightforward pummeling death metal to more complex arrangements, Cavalera Conspiracy hits on most cylinders. The chemistry between the four musicians is very well utilised and Rizzo’s agile lead guitar playing keeps the album from sinking into metal monotony in many spots. Igor drumming is at its best and Chow's bass is very good too. Max's angry growls are as strong as ever. Cavalera Conspiracy haven't reinvented the wheel here but, in serving the fans’ penchant for healthy, thrashy sounds, the album generally meets those expectations.