Korn - Remember Who YouAre

Wed 11th Aug, 2010 in Music Reviews

I told a friend with great delight that I was reviewing the latest Korn album, hoping he’d mimic my enthusiasm. A Korn fan from afar, he asked if “the guitarist was back”. The guitarist in reference is Brian “Head” Welch and he has left to find God, leaving a vacancy that is noticeable.

The press releases notes that this album is “the best album Korn have made since their debut” according to Metal Hammer and another reputable publication Kerrang said that the album “re-asserts the quartet’s status as one of metal’s most innovative bands”. However, as I listened to the album over and over, back-to-back, nothing leapt out at me. There were no catchy tunes, scorching solos, interesting beats, it’s a good album for the most part but not brilliant.

The edge that elevated Korn to the forefront of nu-metal is lost. Jonathon Davis no longer sounds believable as the troubled soul dealing with his demons. He may sing Let the Guilt Go with his distinctive angst, but it just sounds a little unbelievable. With the desire to experiment, something’s gone astray.

Perhaps the problem with reviewing this album is that it’s being compared to it’s predecessors, so it doesn’t stand the chance to be judged in it’s own right. Had one never heard a Korn album before, I guarantee one will devour this album for its imagery and vibrancy.