ALBUM REVIEW: Godmode – In This Moment
IN THIS MOMENT are arguably one of the biggest alternative metal groups of the 21st century. The Los Angeles five-piece formed back in 2005, but ultimately their breakthrough came with the release of Blood back in 2012, which saw them score five top 20 positions in international charts. IN THIS MOMENT are undoubtedly more than ready to bounce back into the game following the release of their seventh studio album Mother three years ago, with their eighth full-length Godmode out now via BMG. Despite what some might assume from the title, Godmode isn’t a nod to religion, but instead hints towards a code used in the video game Destiny, which makes players invincible, and also refers to a triumphant flow state where things come together smoothly.
The album opens with the title track, and from the first second it feels as though we are transported into another dimension with the futuristic style synths kicking things off in the best way. Unfortunately however, this is the only good thing about this track, because other than that it is quite forgettable. The Purge brings us back to the IN THIS MOMENT that we all know and love, discussing how the world is becoming so negative and dark. Even though this song isn’t an instant banger, it is clear to see how they have become one of the most notable metal groups of the century, mixing things up with a slightly industrial sound and with some insane screams from Maria Brink in the bridge section.
Next up is a cover of Army Of Me by BJORK. This track is just perfect for Brink‘s vocal range, providing us with the ideal mix of chilling synths and raw talent to form another standout song on this release. From there, Sacrifice has a great melody, but the lyrical content is somewhat lacking; Skyburner features some MUSE-inspired synths during the introduction, before moving back into their typical alternative metal sound, and it is at this halfway point in the album that some might start to wonder if IN THIS MOMENT have lost their sparkle.
Sanctify Me is next, containing a really catchy melody at the very beginning. As we leap further and further into the track, it seems to stick more and more in our head. Everything Starts And Ends With You seems to be something of a love song, with Brink belting out “Everything starts and ends with you / The earth stood still / We burst alive / The universe / And stars align / As we collide / Everything starts and ends with you.” Damaged features vocals courtesy of ICE NINE KILLS‘ Spencer Charnas, and both his and Brink‘s vocals seem to merge together impeccably well. Fate Bringer is another pretty catchy track, whereas closer I Would Die For You (which notably featured on the John Wick: Chapter 4 soundtrack) is forgettable by comparison.
Godmode isn’t the most memorable of metal albums to say the least, but it is definitely worth a shot. Melodies in tracks like Fate Bringer, Sacrifice and Sanctify Me are definite highlights, but unfortunately it feels as though something is really lacking throughout in terms of lyrical content, which is such a shame. Have IN THIS MOMENT lost their sparkle or is this just an unfortunate blip?
Rating: 6/10
Godmode is out now via BMG.
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