Unto The Locust keeps a lot of the elements of The Blackening in tact while adding some interesting experimentation to the mix. There are a lot more melodic elements thrown into the fold which works really well for Machine Head. Album opener "I Am Hell" should surprise a lot of Machine Head fans. It starts off with a slow, orchestra-esque intro then thunders into an expectational riff and breakneck speed for the rest of the song. It really is a staggering, epic track and one of the finest of Machine Head's long career. "Darkness Within", another one of the unique standouts, is a ballad that is slow and genuinely beautiful for most of the song then closes out with a heavy bang. The diversity and experimental sections of Unto The Locust keeps Machine Head's sound fresh.
On top of the diversity, Machine Head sounds as good as ever. Robb Flynn's screaming and clean vocals are still powerful and make an impression on the listener. The most impressive element of Unto The Locust though is Phill Demmel's guitarwork. Every single solo on this album blew my mind. He is able to blend melodic, gorgeous soloing with inhuman speed flawlessly. His solos are like a workout for your ears. Unto The Locust is also one of the best sounding albums of the year. Robb Flynn's production is clean sounding, immense, and just plain excellent all around.
Unto The Locust was completely worth the long wait. I really dug the enhanced melody that was used on this record. It really complemented the relentless fury of Machine Head's music very well. I didn't like this quite as much as The Blackening, but Unto The Locust is another great record from Machine Head.
4/5 Stars
Standout Tracks
1.I Am Hell (Sonata In C#)
2.Darkness Within
3.This Is The End
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