F E A R (F*** EVERYONE AND RUN)

So after 5 complete sittings on good equipment I feel ready to share my thoughts. The independent reviews gave reason to be optimistic, while others have dared to air their disappointment, only to get shot down as though they have just insulted someone's relative. Sadly as much as I want to give my all time favourite band a glowing review to match the expectation, I am left feeling a rather underwhelmed. My excitement slowly ebbs away as I finish every session wondering whether the independent reviewers were given a different version to me!

"Similarities to Brave?" - Not even a close contest. Brave has multiple sections of pure brilliance, taking you on a journey through quiet moments of genius to guitar solos of such quality that the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. Once again Rothery's guitar takes a back seat as he continues to ruin every one by insisting on using his favourite effects pedal that sounds like he is playing underwater. I can only apologise to the band for slating their hard work. I just find this album uninspiring and dull. 'The New Kings' is easily the best section, but it still left me wanting more.

I am now sure to get slaughtered for giving my honest opinion, and that is fine as some people will take offence. Music is very personal, and my opinion will always conflict with others, and on this occasion with the band themselves who have said that they are now able to write what they want without feeling the need to please everyone. Good for them, and I respect their attitude. Unfortunately it is not good for me. Good musicianship, good lyrics at the most, good packaging, good album (just maybe not for me). A 'good' 3 stars.