So this is Soulfly‘s ninth album and it’s different. It’s not like the last few records, where they were over the top fast and full of brutality. Savages (Nuclear Blast) is a lot slower, not in the sludge or doom way; but in more single kick than double bass drum heavy. This album is it’s own animal. In a good way!
Max Cavalera sounds great, full of piss and fire. There’s a youthful tint to his flow and in his playing. Fellow axeman, Marc Rizzo does wonders on this one. His leads give so much to this album. The grooviness of the songs make him standout. The last solo ‘Bloodshed’ from 4:30-5:22 to my ears that is probably my favorite Marc solo. The vibe just bleeds eerie. Newest member to the tribe, hell he was born into it, is Max’s son, Zyon Cavalera. He fits perfectly, he can thrash it up when its called for and turn into a grove machine with the quickness. It must be pretty awesome to share a passion like music with ones child. He reminds me of Dave Grohl in a lot of places. Tony Campos is solid as always. He and Zyon lock in pretty damn nicely.
What would a Soulfly record be without its guest stars? In no particular order; Napalm Death‘s Mitch Harris loans not his axe, but his throat to ‘K.C.S.’. So does Neil Fallon of Clutch on the catchiest track to date: ‘Ayatollah Of Rock N Rolla’. At first listen I thought it was David Vincent again, but I was wrong. Jamie Hanks of I Declare War screams his head off on ‘Fallen’ and did well. Last up is Max’s other son, Igor on ‘Bloodshed’. Legendary and long time producer Terry Date returns to produce and mix this bad boy. Savages is crisp and full sounding like you would expect from him.
The only thing missing for me was the inclusion of ‘Soulfy IX’ that is found on bonus editions. Another fine notch in the Soulfly legacy. It’s a grooving piece of thrash.
8/10
Omar Cordy