Album Review: Unearth - Extinction(s)

There's been something eminently endearing about the workmanlike ethos Unearth have exhibited for more than 15 years now as they've tweaked and honed their sound with each subsequent record.

The Massachusetts metalcore crew haven't scaled the commercial heights of Killswitch Engage or All That Remains, but they've proven reliable in knocking out breakdown-infused, groove-laden fare. Extinction(s) reiterates that Trevor Phipps still roars with conviction, and the guitar interplay of Ken Susi and Buz McGrath has more chemistry than a periodic table.

As the somewhat self-referential single Incinerate suggested though, there's a noticeably more deathcore-esque bent to some of this material - perhaps attributable to guest writing from ex-The Acacia Strain guitarist Daniel 'DL' Laskiewicz. On paper, it could potentially freshen up their sound and appeal to a new generation. However, the actual execution of King Of The Arctic and Survivalist can feel akin to derivative attempts to channel younger favourites a la Thy Art Is Murder. Will Putney's recognisable style of production, albeit crushing, also denies Unearth some of their distinctive personality. That said, the quintet can still radiate hunger and motivation. Cultivation Of Infection is a mosh monster, and on Sidewinder's politically charged hardcore sound their bellies are so full of fire they could begin spitting lava at any moment.

Kudos for attempting to deviate from the formula, even if at times Unearth seem like followers instead of leaders here.