In recent years, no other metal band has dominated the scene quite like Five Finger Death Punch. With the commercial success of “American Capitalist” and their heavy touring schedule, they have become a fierce presence in the metal world. The band is back with a new record, “The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell Volume 1,” the first release off their highly anticipated two part album.
After the commercial success of their last record, I was curious to see if they could top it and hoping they wouldn’t head in a softer direction. I needn’t have worried. “Wrong Side” hits you right between the eyes and knocks you on your ass. From the opening track “Lift Me Up,” which features Judas Priest’s Rob Halford, you are pulled into the raw power and emotion of the music. Nobody does anger better than vocalist Ivan Moody. Combine that with the twin guitar attack of Zoltan Bathory and Jason Hook and the pounding rhythm section of bassist Chris Kael and drummer Jeremy Spencer and you better hold on to your hat. Tracks like “Burn MF” and “Dot Your Eyes” with Hatebreed frontman Jamey Jasta are a full on assault on the senses. Death Punch has a softer side as well and will have you contemplating life on “Wrong Side of Heaven” and on the duet with Maria Brink “Anywhere hut Here.” Death Punch also tackles another cover song with a terrific version of the LL Cool J song “Mama Said Knock You Out” with guest rapperTech N9ne.
“The Wrong Side of Heaven and the Righteous Side of Hell” is one hell of a record. It’s powerful, brutal, and intense with infectious hooks that will leave you salivating for Volume 2. If you’re feeling angry or upset, skip the shrink and pick up a copy of this disc today. Music like this is therapeutic and you won’t be disappointed.
