LATERALUS

An intricate, carefully crafted symphony of inspired metal compositions howling out dark emotions from the brooding shadows of the music industry. Perhaps unlike Aenima, which has enough fabulous hooks in its songs to immediately catch an angsty listener, Lateralus demands appreciation. It is lengthy, unfolding slowly and demanding the listener to take it in with time. For those who do, it transforms into a stellar display of creative songwriting and musical energy, filled with dark textures and memorable riffs.

For those who are put off by Aenima's overt anger, Lateralus might be more your piece of cake. The music is deep and heavy, dominated by powerful complex, chugging metal riffs with interludes of delicate textures during the transitions and in a few wonderfully extended places as well. Carrey delivers are more insteresting performance behind the drums here, and Jones' guitar handles the mix of heavy/light sounds wonderfully-- with a few creative solos as well. Keenan's lyrics are cryptic and stunningly smart, with his vocal deliveries more mature and calculated than last time around, but as the band's personality he is absolutely irresistible.

Unlike Aenima, which was dominated by individual songs, Lateralus is about atmosphere-- punctuated by moments of intense metal.

While certainly a dark piece, I think it is erroneous to label this album as strictly angry-- the title track is surprisingly uplifting. All in all: a modern metal marvel of creative music not to be missed; will very much appeal to any open minded individuals who can take dark sounds, and what a pay off.

Songwriting: 4 Instrumental Performances: 4 Lyrics/Vocals: 4 Style/Emotion/Replay: 5