Animosity

For the first time in the life of the band, Sevendust (TVT Records) have had time to write and create their songs at home, not in between tour dates as they have in the past. With this new, found freedom, the band wrote 13 mind blowing, beautifully-crafted hard rock classics.

Those expecting a collection of full-on metal songs on the latest Sevendust album will get only half of what they want. While the band has always had a more melodic, less rap-metal approach than their peers, tracks on Animosity are far more accessible than typical nu metal. Some songs, with their contradictory mixes, do sound disjointed and confusing, but "Crucified," "Damaged," and "Dead Set" are just a few examples where it all fits together nicely.

Elsewhere, tracks fall into power-ballad waters, but thankfully they are not cheesy. "Xmas Day" and the midtempo "Follow"--featuring assists by Aaron Lewis of Staind--feature dark but emotional melodies that are carried beautifully by Lajon Witherspoon's soulful vocals. The album closes on a spiritual note with "Angel's Son," Sevendust's heartfelt tribute to late Snot singer Lynn Strait, which is fleshed out by a string section. --Gail Flug