Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Hatebreed The Concrete Confessional Company: Nuclear Blast Release: 2016 Genre: Hardcore Reviewer: Dave Loveless

One of their best albums

I've been listening to Hardcore since the late 80's. From earlier bands such as Suicidal Tendencies and DRI, then moving on to Sick Of It All and Madball, there is one band that stands out as the most brutal of them all--Hatebreed. From the full-on metal assault of their albums to their intense live shows (see Live Dominance 2008), Hatebreed leave an impression like no other. Whether it's the fast thrashy songs, or their extremely memorable breakdowns, Hatebreed supercharge their songs with positive/inspirational lyrics, setting them apart from all other bands in the genre.

Back with their 7th full-length album (8th overall if you include their incredible covers album, For The Lions) The Concrete Confessional, Hatebreed once again prove they are the kings of Hardcore Metal. Immediately kicking things off with one of their thrashiest songs ever, A.D., it's apparent that they have taken a big influence from Slayer over the years. Even the breakdown starting at the 1:34 mark, is pure genius and would make anyone want to punch a wall!

Looking Down The Barrel Of Today, Seven Enemies, & In The Walls will have you nodding along, while gritting your teeth at the same time. From Grace We've Fallen is like a throwback to the earlier days and has a chorus that will have you singing along. Us Against Us speeds things back up is probably the biggest hardcore-influenced song on the album. Something's Off starts off with a sick bass line before launching into a tight groove and Remember When sounds like it could have been an outtake from their Perseverance album – and that's a huge compliment. The main riff from Slaughtered In Their Dreams pays homage to late 80's mid-paced thrash metal. The Apex Within has some killer gang vocals and sick breakdown that will make you ball up your fist. Walking The Knife, Dissonance, and Serve Your Masters close out the album with as much intensity as was in the beginning.

I'm sure a lot of metal fans have a love/hate relationship with Hatebreed, but there is no denying that they are one of the most intense, pure, and consistent metal bands on the planet. In my opinion, The Concrete Confessional is one of their best albums – right up there with Perseverance and The Rise Of Brutality – and easily making my Top Metal Albums of 2016 list (so far).