Album Review: In Flames - I, The Mask

Having long since transitioned from the Gothenburg sound they helped birth, In Flames have become an easy target for metal purists. But as much as said purists may will it to happen, the band aren't going to recreate 1996's The Jester Race anytime soon. Meanwhile, they've won over a new generation of supporters. 

Certainly, evolving and reinventing is perfectly valid, provided the results remain vital. However, bar a few fleeting moments of genuine excitement, recent albums have seemed pedestrian and forgettable even, suggesting longtime fans' sniping had some basis.

While contemporaries like Soilwork sound comfortable in their own skin nowadays, In Flames' track (This Is Our) House – thankfully not a Bon Jovi cover – is just plain awkward and cheesy. Arguably a career nadir, I, The Mask's gang chants and chugging riffs were seemingly penned with an eye on prominent radio-rock playlists. In Flames unquestionably understand the power of good hooks, so it’s a shame some tracks rely on weak jabs instead. I Am Above packs a hefty riff but has the type of dull pop/metal chorus that's punctuated recent efforts. There are songs, however, that see the band playing to their strengths; a combination of energy, melody and power. Burn injects furious riffage and a more urgent pace in spots, while We Will Remember proves one of the more memorable affairs.

By the time these 50-plus minutes have elapsed, the status quo will likely be maintained. Newer fans should embrace many of these cuts, but grizzled, seasoned supporters may continue to furrow their brows.