Album Review: Bury Tomorrow - Black Flame

Although we almost certainly collectively reached peak metalcore some time ago, Bury Tomorrow remain dedicated to the cause on their fifth LP.

These Brits have perhaps been among the style's perennial B-teamers up to this point, but their heads-down ethos has endeared them to a healthy crop of supporters. This passion is tangible as they rip into each song like kids tearing into the wrapping paper at Christmas. The crisp, punchy production also aids the attack.

There are earworms to be found too, a la the anthemic chorus of the Gothenburg-influenced title track. Meanwhile, More Than Mortal will be truly incendiary in the pit, boasting a beatdown sure to have chiropractors working overtime on the damaged necks of fans, and Knife Of Gold's a banger best enjoyed at neighbour-bothering volumes. They also attempt to devise some creative melodies and blending vocal lines amid the overly-familiar bipolar approach. However, there are times, particularly in the record's second half, when they not only stoop to formula and tired tropes, but the affair feels played-out, or some songs somewhat interchangeable.

For a batch of heavy, yet accessible tunes, Black Flame isn't reinventing the wheel, but it's a solid effort bolstered by a combination of energy, melody and power.