It seems that Dee Snider had a great time working with Hatebreed’s Jamey Jasta three years ago, as he decided to…revisit this collaboration on his brand new solo album appropriately entitled “Leave A Scar”. And not only this but, once again, he gave him full freedom in regards with the overall compositional aspect and the production of the new record. In other words, this might be technically the new Dee Snider record but it also features Jasta’s sound and aesthetic throughout the record, as it happened back in 2018 with the awesome “For The Love Of Metal”.
If you expected any differentiation or musical deviation compared to the predecessor of “Leave A Scar”, well…you better think again. This is a classic case of natural continuation as all the 12 new tracks could have easily found a comfortable place on “For The Love Of Metal”. This is a modern metal assault combined with a few metalcore and brutal moments but also some classic heavy metal traces here and there. As a matter of fact, this could be the sole different element. And all these are presented in a flawless package of well-crafted tunes with anthemic choruses that all the Dee Snider fans absolutely adore. Highlights include the sensational “Silent Battles” and “Stand” while it would be a mishap if we didn’t point out that…Corpsegrinder of the Cannibal Corpse fame guests on the song “Time To Choose”. And odd pairing or what?
I’d say that the magical characteristic of “Leave A Scar” is the fact that it is forwarded towards the new generation but also towards the traditional metal fans. It’s a sonic crossroad where in the end the ever imposing figure of Dee Snider emerges and definitely shines throughout the whole duration of the album. Modern heavy metal at its very best…
Highlight: Once again, Napalm Records has produced a limited edition of an excellent box set edition of the new album.
