Not necessarily just picking up where La Muerte left off, but definitely refining and applying more focus to the craft of songwriting, Jan-Chris de Koeijer and crew have simply made their best album yet. JC's inimitable roar is in fine form, making this album instantly recognizable after only a singular vocal line. His voice, as usual, has ultimate clarity and rises above Tue Madsen's killer mix, at times recalling Piotr Wiwczarek (Vader).

Musically Rise to Ruin is a varied affair that shines through on several levels. Ed Warby's drumming is stellar, whether it's a blast-beat, a rolling drumfill, or simply laying back in the groove. JC's basswork is also worth noting, particularly with its vintage "Sunlight Studios" emulating sound rumbling throughout. The axe-work of Boudewijn Bonebakker and Frank Harthoorn runs the gamut from pseudo-Black Metal to flat-out Death Metal to a definitively Rock sound that has been more "Metallized" than previous Gorefest efforts (see Soul Survivor), as well the lead guitars are excellent.

What makes Gorefest special in 2007 is that the band has sharpened its attack. They've taken what made them famous and incorporated all of it at once, much like Entombed's latest, though to perhaps greater effect. The massive chug is there, the brutal groove is there, and the blistering vocals, too, as well as punishing drums. Best tracks include the slowest one on the album, "A Grim Charade," as well as "Revolt" and the title track, though the whole thing rules. Tracks 10 and 11 are apparently bonus rounds for the United States....

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 56:52