‘As dark as my heart can be now, I’m changing my life, I’m waiting for light’.
We travel back to the USA now for the new album from Sevendust, rocking all over the world since 1994, a colourful and varied history sees them still working hard at expanding their musical tapestry with album number fourteen. Come closer my friends, let me whisper in your ear ‘Truth Killer’ the album begins with a spookily, carousel effect in ‘I Might Let The Devil Win’ with that rhythmic ‘don’t come around, don’t come around please’ like menacing footsteps approaching from a distance. There is a gentle persuasion, an acquisition by stealth as you are drawn into the drama that is about to unfold. The golden tonsils of singer Lajon Witherspoon are so smooth, so silky and enriched with the heavier tones, providing great character and discernment to this record. Substantially backed up by Clint Lowery – lead guitar, Morgan Rose – drums, John Connolly – rhythm guitar and Vince Hornsby on bass, Sevendust make for an unyielding presence, they’ve seen too much of the world, their experiences exhibited here from the get-go. The horrific subject of child abuse is discussed in ‘Sick Mouth’ we learn that we need to align ourselves with the victims, and give them their power back, the lyric ‘no prayer for the guilty’ is an accurate indictment of the punishment due. Bathe in the ‘Holy Water’ with that euphoric introduction, and the words ‘I used to pray but I’m tired, I’m here for better or worse’ test it, taste it and chalk it up as another victory. Immerse yourself, so deep that you can ‘Leave Hell Behind’ and let go of the click, click, click of the ‘Superficial Drug’ that has taken over our lives. The fine art of living and conversation have been sidelined as we crave our follows and our likes. The cover art reminds me of Poltergeist with the little girl sitting in front of the television, but also the video for Korn ‘Here To Stay’ however I get inklings of Bad Religion too. I’m guessing that’s to do with how the television is a propaganda vehicle, how we are enthralled and hypnotised by what it shows us. Throwing us over the finish line we have the rip-roaring ‘Fence’ all served with a lovely cup of toxic waste, drink up my friends, it’s showtime! The Claymation video is fun to watch as the story descends into a Zombie apocalypse, murderous mayhem with lashings of green gunk. There is a ferocity within the frivolity, take heed, it may just save your life. At a time when we have been sold down the river, where deceit and dishonesty is the order of the day, you can kill the truth, and the dust may settle, but it won’t stop the bleeding.
Azra Pathan
Sevendust – Truth Killer out now