CATCH THIRTYTHREE

The worst work from Meshuggah this far (which is no surprise, because Nuclear Blast forced these guys to record one more album). There are about two different guitar riffs on this "concept" album, switching and variating throught the songs. It could be a jam record of some kind. Well, that may be exaggeration but the fact remains that the album is far too simplistic. For example, I don't understand why the first three songs are separated from each other, though they all have the same riff going on. Does it have something to do with the lyrical concept? Perhaps, but it's really boring to be listened. Vocal parts appear quite randomly losing the grip of the listener and the whole thing seems pointless.The last heavy riff of the album does offer some sort of conclusion for the album but is very forced: is there any need for a "majestic ending" for a pointless and extremely boring album?

The most disappointing thing on Catch 33 is the absence of decent polyrhytmical figures. The album is based mainly on lazy guitar riffs (ultimately ruined by the over-use of the eighth string, even without muting it). Still, one positive side of this second hand work could be mentioned: Jens Kidman's insane vocals shows no sign of weakening.