The newest release from Finland’s The 69 Eyes is an excellent example of memorable, metal production from beginning to end. The title track, "Back in Blood” is filled with superb guitar work, tight and heavy layered hooks, and vocals that are one thousand feet tall, larger than anyone’s life. Although lyrically uninteresting, the overall punch makes up for the song's minimal weaknesses. Following the same recipe as Blood, “We Own The Night" is the most radio friendly cut and could be very acceptable to a wide range of listeners. The vocal arrangements are extremely catchy and interesting.
“Dead N' Gone“ comes out of the gate with a very beautiful and warmly picked yet gritty guitar introduction. Dark and seductive verses move elegantly into an excellent chorus. One of my favorites on the release, this song had me from the first six notes. The bridge steps in with subtle grace and touching surprise. I played this one over and over. and honestly feel they should release this track as another single. With an epic and grand intro, “The Good, The Bad and the UnDead” and “Kiss Me Undead” are definitely large in scope, but fell short to predictable delivery and cliché. The overall sound is immense but the overall spirit was not interesting enough to make me want to replay them again. Both had moments that woke my ears, but not enough to turn me around.
Within the first notes, “Lips of Blood” took me back to the memorable riffs and masterful six-string crunch. The overall guitar work on this piece is very tasteful, powerful and sharp with a lead break that is short but very well executed. The song takes you on a great journey that leaves you wanting more. “Dead Girls Are Easy” is a humorous but excellent, fist pumping, encore screaming future classic. The lead is excellent and a perfect example of great metal and musical prowess. It has the classic texture that any metal fan would proudly turn to eleven while rocketing down the highway. A memorable tone reminiscent of Motley Crue's "Shout at the Devil" but with more guts in it's delivery. This is an excellent choice for their first single.
Unfortunately “Night Watch” and “Some Kind Of Magick” brought me down quickly and once again slowed my heart beat. Both contain nice guitar work but overall neither kept my attention. Both tracks were on the low end of this roller coaster containing the highs and lows of how each song moves me personally. Each had consistent punch but not something I would choose to play over again. “Hunger” is hauntingly seductive and starts with a nice, devilish mood. Effected piano, tremolo guitar and dark vocals bring you quickly to a dark place, but lacks luster as it moves forward. The lead break temporarily pulled me back in, but wasn’t enough to keep me engaged. “Suspiria Snow White” stalks you like a runaway freight train and then runs you over. Pounding beats carrying some nicely textured vocals and blazing guitar. It is the corkscrew on this rollercoaster recording. A dangerous, hyperactive ride by the seat of your pants, it will rock you and demand a re-listen. I begged for more at the lead break but I still appreciated the screaming joyride.
In the closing “Eternal”, you receive a tender, devilish seduction as it slowly builds sonically and emotionally. Large in scope, yet simple and understated, it's colors shine through as a perfect closer to a very good record. Another pleasant surprise and enjoyable listen overall, Back in Blood will not be disappointing to a die-hard metal fan.
"Back in Blood" is on sale September 15, 2009 from The End.
