Review: Bullet for My Valentine - Scream Aim Fire

Artist: Bullet for My Valentine
Album: Scream Aim Fire
Label: Zomba / Sony
Released: 1/29/2008



BSTscore: 83

Scream Aim Fire is the follow up to 2005’s hit, The Poison and the 2^nd full length from the UK’s Bullet for My Valentine. Vocal injuries to lead singer Matthew Tuck delayed the album, but it was worth the wait.

The band continues to pull from its 80’s metal roots with this release. Thrash parts are countered with melody. Screaming is offset with harmony. It’s a great combination that shows off the band’s abilities. The guitar work remains the band’s showcase and the solos and interludes do not disappoint on Scream Aim Fire.

The lyrics are generic at times, but they cover a wide range of topics. From the angry “Disappear” and “Scream Aim Fire” to the ballad-esque “Hearts Burst into Fire”, there is a good mix that will appeal to a wide array of listeners. Tuck has recovered nicely from his vocal issues, as any evidence of the problems is absent from this release. Bullet for My Valentine continues to balance clean singing with screaming in a way that is crisp and clear.

I feared that the band may water down this release a bit after blowing up with The Poison, but overall I think they avoided that. There are a couple of ballads, but they aren’t the clichéd “we have to do an acoustic song” type. From start to finish, the album flows well and is a good listen. It’s not ground breaking, but the band will continue to grow in popularity with Scream Aim Fire.

Musicianship: 85
Vocals: 80
Creativity: 80
Impact: 85

Favorite Song: "Take it Out on Me"

Listen to Bullet for My Valentine