CORROSION OF CONFORMITY — Corrosion Of Conformity (review)

CORROSION OF CONFORMITY — Corrosion Of Conformity album cover Album · 2012 · Stoner Metal Buy this album from MMA partners
3.5/5 ·
UMUR
"Corrosion of Conformity" is the self-titled 8th full-length studio album by US heavy metal/hardcore act Corrosion of Conformity. The album was released through Candlelight Records in February 2012. After "In the Arms of God (2005)" the group went into an indefinite hiatus and I think most people were beginning to wonder if that actually meant the end for Corrosion of Conformity. But the three-piece who originally formed the band back in 1982 apparently felt they had more to contribute with. So this album is recorded as a three-piece consisting of Reed Mullin on drums (and vocals on tracks 3, 8 and 9), Mike Dean on bass and vocals and Woody Weatherman on guitars and vocals. Of course the release of the "Your Tomorrow - Parts 1 & 2" EP in 2010 (which also feature the three-piece lineup) did indicate that something was in the making. Apparently former vocalist/guitarist Pepper Keenan couldn´t decide if he wanted to rejoin Corrosion of Conformity and in the end decided to prioritize his commitment with Down.

...the latter mentioned decision is probably the number one reason why "Corrosion of Conformity" sounds very different from the last four albums by the band. Keenan had an easily recognisable voice and a distinct sound, which is probably one of the things that people think of first when they speak of the band. While neither of the three remaining members, who now share the vocal duties, can measure up to the high quality and personal vocal style of their former singer, they certainly give it their best shot, and while it took me a couple of spins to really appreciate, I actually think they succeed pretty well. The music style is a combination of the different styles the band have played throughout the years with both stoner rock and hardcore being mixed with more traditional heavy metal virtues. "In the Arms of God (2005)" actually showed the band in a more adventurous mood than heard in a long time, but "Corrosion of Conformity" is probably their most eclectic album to date. It´s not the kind of album you put on and know what it´s gonna sound like after the first couple of tracks. We´re exposed to twists and turns, a couple of surprises but also enough familiar sounding ideas to ensure that using the Corrosion of Conformity monicker for the project is perfectly alright.

The sound production is organic and raw but very professional and well sounding. Paired with the excellent musicianship and the entertaining material, "Corrosion of Conformity" is a pretty great album. It´s a surprise that they are back but the quality of the material is not. A 3.5 star (70%) rating is fair.
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