Lamb of God’s latest release “The Duke” may not be quite what you would expect from the band. The EP features two new tracks and 3 live tracks from their last studio album “Sturm und Drang.” The title track is dedicated to a late fan and friend of the band, Wayne Ford. Wayne was named after “The Duke” himself, John Wayne. The song is more of a hard rock tune with the focus on the clean vocals of frontman Randy Blythe who puts in an emotional performance. It’s beautifully written with a strong melody that seems a bit out of sorts for Lamb of God until Blythe turns it up on the bridge screaming “I Will Never Die!” “Culling” is the other new song which is a great mix of thrash and metal with an outstanding, underlying groove that definitely fits right in LOG’s wheelhouse and will be a great track to experience live. Stellar performances from guitarists Morton and Adler are highlighted on “Culling” and Blythe is back in fashion with his unmistakable dirty vocals.
Although it may be a bit of a stray from the typical Lamb of God offering, “The Duke” is a very well done foray into the melodic side of rock and a fitting tribute to the late Mr. Ford. Add in the little taste of blistering metal with “Culling” and fans have something to tide them over until the next LOG album drops.
