In Flames

On “Disconnected” the second and best track on In Flames' ninth album, A Sense Of Purpose, frontman Anders Friden snarls, "I feel like shit / But at least I feel something." It's a genuine sentiment that many a disaffected metal fan can easily relate to. The lyrical content isn't the only thing that metalheads latch onto when it comes to In Flames. The band is one of the authors of the time-tested Swedish Melodic Death Metal blueprint, earning a reputation for fusing unforgettable melodic guitars with deathly fast riffs and growly vocals. But what sets In Flames apart from the horde of SMDM bands is their ability to keep their core sound intact, all the while evolving and expanding on the initial formula.

A Sense Of Purpose is more Swedish and more Melodic, and less Death and less Metallic. Yes, In Flames can still be labeled a “metal” band, but it's not a stretch to call them a tried 'n true hard rock band at this point in their storied career. Friden's hardly ever resorts to gnarly growls to assert himself; instead, he employs a gritty, abrasive pattern that's ultimately more inviting to a more vast audience. Scarring guitar melodies and unforgettable hooks on songs like "Sleepless Again" and the stunning toe-tapper "Alias" will take up residence in your brain for days at a time, but for the most part, A Sense Of Purpose is In Flames continuing on the course and doing what they do best and that's creating quality aggro music that captures the attention of the melody-o-philes in us all.

—Amy Sciarretto
03.13.08

Frantic metal band In Flames can deliver a good melody around the militaristic, precision drumming of Daniel Svensson and the occasionally guttural yelps of frontman Anders Fridén. Whether it's a tight, polished effort like "The Mirror's Truth" with traces of classic metal à la Iron Maiden or especially Judas Priest, In Flames definitely bring a sense of purpose to this record. From there, the group increase the Metallica-ish franticness with "Disconnected" that relies on heavy guitar riffs but a far lighter, almost airy chorus and bridge. This is improved upon later on the album as "I'm the Highway" takes the record to another level. Probably the heaviest track is "Condemned," that again is driven by Svensson and the guitar tandem of Jesper Strömblad and Björn Gelotte. These less intense moments are rarities, though, as "Sleepless Again" almost contains slight "emo" characteristics throughout. The group truly strike gold with the deliberate but delectable "Alias" that brings to mind classic Led Zeppelin in the various twists and turns it takes. Following a beefy, brawn-saturated "Move Through Me," In Flames save the crowning achievement for the lengthy, winding "The Chosen Pessimist," which opens like a reflective, introspective piece of music by Sigur Rós before finding its way effortlessly. In Flames continue to make their mark by being rooted in a strong metal or hard rock foundation but being musically and creatively inquisitive enough to seek out something more. [Koch issued a CD/DVD edition in 2008 as well.] ~ Jason MacNeil, All Music Guide