Review: Avenged Sevenfold - Self-Titled

artist: avenged sevenfold album: avenged sevenfold label: warner bros. records released: 10/30/2007 by: rob tatum musicianship - 13/15 The band picks up where they left off on City of Evil with amazing guitar work and drumming. They are one of the more talented groups in music today. lyrics - 10/15 Lead singer M. Shadows has switched his focus to more personal and spiritual lyrics. While his passion is conveyed well, the songs are somewhat erratic. There is room for improvement. vocals - 12/15 While the lyrics may not have won me over, Shadows' vocal training has definitely paid off for him. His range and clarity are phenomenal on the band's recordings (not so much live). He has recovered nicely from the key problems that eliminated the screaming in their songs. songwriting/flow - 11/15 I have always been a fan of the band's willingness to experiment with song structures, but I think they may have over done some of the effects on this album. The vocal arrangement in the chorus of "Lost" sounds like it was taken straight from the band Hellogoodbye. My favorite song, "A Little Piece of Heaven", is one of the more elaborate structures, but it has terrific melody. impact/creativity - 11/15 Avenged Sevenfold has definitely continued to distance itself from the rest of heavy music with this release. I don't think the band has broken new ground with this album, but they haven't repeated their past material. Originally I was disappointed that the band had strayed away from screaming and breakdowns, but after they last two albums, I have come to appreciate how unique the band is. “now” factor - 11/15 This album has made its way into my rotation and I would recommend it to any Avenged Sevenfold fan. future/prediction - 8/10 I don't think this album will have the band topping TRL again, but it will certainly bring more radio play and more popularity for the band. They have made a nice niche for themselves in the music community. favorite song: a little piece of heaven overall: 76/100 listen to avenged sevenfold