Sacrament starts strong with the Bay Area Thrash stylings of "Walk with Me in Hell," is followed with another signature live staple, "Again We Rise," and the change-up pitch to dominate the video airwaves, live setting, and perhaps radio, too, in "Redneck." The ode to fellows from God's country (that'd be VA, if you ask D. Randall Blythe) is the most accessible but most abusive song on the record. It has all the swagger and crunch of Pantera with guest vocals by Rob Zombie (White Zombie era, mind you). "Pathetic" follows up the excellence that is "Redneck" but offers sheer guitar histrionics akin to Kerry King (check the killer solo ~3 minutes into the song) and lots of yell along vocal hooks.

Slight derailing of all previous trains of thought: the main star on this record is outspoken vocalist Blythe. His voice -- called characters by axeman Mark Morton -- sounds like he's been listening to the great and varied Chuck Billy (see Testament's Demonic). The band still offers what they do best with more excuses to include melody and the like, though in the second half of the album some of the music sounds perhaps necessarily derivative of their back catalog. Specific drum bits sound like they've been heard before, as do some song bridges, etc. While this detracts from the overall experience, Sacrament is still a successful outing worthy of your attention.

How would LoG follow their major label debut Ashes of the Wake? Like this -- and don't forget those killer tours supporting Slayer and Megadeth. Let's quote the band to wrap this up: "This is a motherfucking invitation. The only one you could ever need." Get on the bus, kiddies, 'cause there's still room. Don't mind the trendy, hipster kids wearin' those awful haircuts, eyeliner, nail polish, and clothes one size too small. Lamb of God makes Metal -- there is no Core in that description -- for themselves and anyone else into what they do. Bottom line: they don't care what you think. Unless you like their sound, that is. "Blacken the Cursed Sun" is another standout.

Quick hit: Lamb of God's sonic hybrid of Pantera and Slayer features some modern twists and maybe more aggression. Sacrament should go a long way in seeing the band ascend to the throne abandoned by the untimely demise of Pantera. That would be the throne corresponding to major label success without compromising musical vision. This band is that important.

written by Tony Belcher

Playing time: 46.11