Late pass review for a record that came out in 2011.
I'll start this off by saying that Nick Barker is one of my favorite musicians, and at that, one of the most underrated and desirable drummers out there. This is the guy who made Cradle Of Filth and Dimmu Borgir listenable for a 5 year period, and also one of the nicest guys I've ever met, even though I did the retarded fanboy thing and practically chased him down when all he was trying to do was eat some Chinese food after a show in Philly once (if you ever read this, sorry about that, chief, and thanks for the autograph though I didn't deserve it)
At various points in my life, I've claimed, despite the backlash I get, to enjoy Lock Up more than I do many of their prior bands, including many points in the Napalm Death discography. And why not really? ND had some missteps, while Lock Up seems to be getting faster and tighter and grindier with every release.
"Necropolis Transparent" marks the band's long awaited third release, and second release with workhorse singer Tomas Lindberg. Even after like 2356236 bands, he has never sounded better. Neither has Barker, who is somehow playing faster than I can even comprehend. Even with Anton Reisenegger playing in place of the legendary late great Jesse Pintado, every track is top notch. Lock Up as a whole seems to have really one-upped themselves technically for this release, and all of the benefits go to their dedicated fans. The songs are just as pissed off and frantic as before, but with faster pace and the best production the band has had yet. Listen to the intensity and transitions in "Parasite Drama." Tell me these guys aren't playing on like 40 levels above any metal band formed since 2000. Having guest vocals from Peter Tagtgren and Jeff Walker only adds to the awesome.
Bottom line, if you like fast music and don't like Lock Up, you're fucking up and I don't like you. I really can't think of much at all that keeps this from being a perfect release. It's surely leaps and bounds above modern metal. Bands today should just leave it to the pros.
Staff Rating
4.80/5
User Rating
2/5
brendan is a wiener though.