You’ve been a diehard Sevendust fan since the beginning. You rocked out to their self-titled debut in 1997 and have been hooked ever since. But you have to admit, some of their recent albums haven’t quite captured the intensity and passion of their earlier work. When you heard Sevendust was releasing a new album, you were hopeful but skeptical? Lajon Witherspoon’s vocals are as powerful as ever, and the dual guitar work of John Connolly and Clint Lowery will rattle your walls. The rhythm section pounds with a relentless intensity. This album is a killer return to form and a welcome reminder of why Sevendust will always reign supreme in the hard rock and metal scene. The kings have reclaimed their throne – long live Sevendust!
Pummeling Riffs and Aggressive Beats
From the opening chords of “No Revolution”, Sevendust digs deep into their signature hard rock sound with pummeling riffs, aggressive beats, and Lajon Witherspoon’s raspy vocals. The band holds nothing back, with standout tracks like “Love and Hate” and “Superficial Drug” featuring chunky guitars, pounding drums and in-your-face lyrics.
A Return to Form?
Truth Killer is a return to the melodic hard rock that put Sevendust on the map. While the band’s previous few albums explored different styles, this release has electronic accents and flourishes throughout the album. “We pulled in a lot of electronic elements,” says guitarist Clint Lowery. “In the past, I hired outside programmers, but I did the programming myself. I tried to create a musical bed that made it easy to sing cool vocal parts. We always set a goal to have a certain sound, and we followed through with it. We didn’t compromise. Sevendust continues to deliver the heavy yet hook-filled songs that have defined their career.
Lajon Witherspoon’s Vocals Still Sound Great
Over 20+ years, Lajon Witherspoon’s vocals have only gotten better. His singing on ‘Truth Killer’ is soulful yet forceful, emotive yet energizing. In the verses, his melodic crooning draws you in before he unleashes his full power in the chorus. When the song crescendos, Lajon’s belting is goosebump-inducing. His control and sustain on the higher notes are a testament to his natural talent and dedication to his craft.
With a versatile voice that can pivot from tender to intense, Lajon has always been the not-so-secret weapon of Sevendust. On ‘Truth Killer’, he’s at the top of his game, conveying a mix of vulnerability, angst and defiance. Lyrically, the song deals with overcoming deception and fighting for the truth, themes that Lajon brings to life through his dynamic performance.
Overall, Truth Killer is a guitar-driven album that should please longtime fans of the band. Sevendust have rediscovered their hard rock roots and heaviness, but also continue to push themselves melodically and compositionally. The riffs are memorable, the solos are inspired, and the tones are thick and crushing. Turn it up loud—the guitars on this record deserve to be heard. Sevendust have been at it for over 20 years, but on Truth they prove they still have plenty more to say.
Track List
- “I Might Let the Devil Win” 4:27
- “Truth Killer” 3:43
- “Won’t Stop the Bleeding” 4:04
- “Everything” 4:18
- “No Revolution” 3:47
- “Sick Mouth” 3:38
- “Holy Water” 3:56
- “Leave Hell Behind” 4:42
- “Superficial Drug” 4:33
- “Messenger” 4:03
- “Love and Hate” 4:52
- “Fence” 3:37
Line Up
Lajon Witherspoon – lead vocals
Clint Lowery – lead guitar, backing vocals, programming
John Connolly – rhythm guitar, backing vocals
Vinnie Hornsby – bass, backing vocals
Morgan Rose – drums, backing vocals