Eighth album Servant of the Mind continues their M.O. ![]() while glossing up their sonic approach (a tad) and re-emphasizing the theatrical potential in guitarist/vocalist Michael Poulsen's songs. Again produced and mixed by longtime collaborator Jacob Hansen, Servant of the Mind is arguably the darkest, loudest, and heaviest album in their catalog -as well as their most accessible. Written in three months, it was recorded in three weeks. With its roiling drumkit and bass intro, opener "Temple of Ekur" is as epic and excessive as its title. The chugging guitar riff, driving tempo, and Poulsen's crystal clean, hooky vocals combine to make it a stadium anthem. "The Sacred Stones" commences with a massive Black Sabbath-like dual guitar riff from Poulsen and Rob Caggiano, underscored by Jon Larsen's thudding tom-toms and kick drums and Kaspar Boye Larsen's filthy bassline. Poulsen deliberately channels Ronnie James Dio in his singing. What emerges is a dynamic update of Heaven and Hell's approach transformed through Volbeat's musicality. "Shotgun Blues" is darker, edgier, and more ferocious. ![]() The guitars charge at one another with 1980s thrash metal abandon, forcing Poulsen to climb above them. The charging drum kit and distorted bassline add ballast and textural dimension.
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