After dealing with battles both legal and personal, Five Finger Death Punch has finally been able to release their seventh studio album, “And Justice For None.” The band has been a dominant presence in the metal world for over a decade and will be kicking off a co-headlining tour with Breaking Benjamin this July after completing a successful run of spring festivals dates.
Working with long term producer Kevin Churko, 5FDP is back in attack mode with their signature sound of bone crushing riffs, thundering drums, and infectious melodies. The band also has a knack for captivating cover songs and this time is no different. The lead single “Gone Away”, originally by The Offspring, is a stellar example of how 5FDP can take a song and not only put their own spin on it but rework it into something completely different. Their version of “Gone Away” features a slower tempo and the addition of some exquisite, mournful piano work that lends a passionate almost chilling feel to the song. Drummer Jeremy Spencer provides a punishing presence throughout the album as he really drives the pace the entire time. “Fake” and “Top of the World” are groove heavy anthems while “Sham Pain” has a different feel incorporating an almost rap metal vibe to the middle section. The mid-tempo ballad “I Refuse” is a true showcase for vocalist Ivan Moody’s versatility as he exercises complete control over his powerhouse of a voice. One of my favorite tracks is “Stuck In My Ways” which starts off slower before the power builds and builds. Don’t miss the blistering guitar solo by Jason Hook on this one. Their second cover of the album features a massive wall of sound on the Kenny Wayne Shepherd tune “Blue On Black.”
Five Finger Death Punch excels in their ability to combine ferocious riffs and aggressive grooves with compelling melodies making “And Justice For None” a must add to your collection.
