Korn - The Paradigm Shift
Since the release of their debut in 1994 KoRn has become synonymous with the term Nu-Metal. Over the past 20 years they have released 10 albums which have been met with mixed reviews from metal fans and critics alike. They are back in 2013 with their 11th studio offering The Paradigm Shift.
As the albums opening track Prey For Me begins, it becomes clear that the return of "Head" has brought back the attitude and punch that seemed to have been missing in KoRns past couple of releases.
The classic dual guitar attack sound that KoRn has become known for in their earlier albums makes a warm return and the restoration of James "Munky" Shaffer and "Head" as a creative guitar duo reveals some of the best down tuned guitar riffs heard from KoRn in years, which is perfectly complimented by the bass lines of Reginald "Fieldy" Arvizu. Although David Silveria is still missing from this "Reunion", drummer Ray Luzier still holds his own and blasts his way throughout the entirety of the album, songs such as Love And Meth & Mass Hysteria is where he really gets to shine out and remind us what a great drummer he is.
Lyrically, the album offers nothing new as Jonathan Davis remains to dwell on about how damaged he is inside. As is usually the case, Davis major asset is his voice, as he screams his heart out and at times sounds as if he's possessed by a demon, all the while retaining a beautiful melody, an art that Davis has now mastered and should be commended for.
The electronic elements from their last album The Path Of Totality has noticeably been toned down enough on this album to merely blend in and support songs such as Spike In My Veins and Love And Meth, instead of overpowering and choking the life out of the album. The lead single Never Never is the black sheep of the album, as it feels like it belongs on the aforementioned album The Path Of Totality. It is definitely the weakest track on the album, and at times I truly believe that Lenny Kravitz is about to start singing about how he wants to Get Away. That being said though, it does break down the album and acts as a fresh approach from the remaining heavier tracks on the album.
All in all, the album makes a welcome return to a classic sound that old-school fans will love with enough newer elements to show their progress.
KoRn circa 2013 is perhaps the healthiest the band has been in over a decade, which would explain the solidarity and focus that drives much of their eleventh studio offering, The Paradigm Shift.
'The Paradigm Shift' Is Available Now:
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