Saliva is one of the few bands of the nu metal movement that reigned supreme in the late 90s/early 00s and I continue to follow after more than 25 years. Certainly, the fact that they have a clear melodic side with very catchy songs played a major role in me getting hooked on them and despite the ups and downs of their career, they have managed to hold their own in the voracious world of the music industry. The tragic – albeit untimely – loss of Saliva’s guitarist and founder Wayne Swinny has brought sadness to the band’s thousands of fans and so “Revelation” carries, at least in my eyes, a strong emotional charge as well.
Let’s start from the basics: those who like the Saliva era with Bobby Amaru behind the microphone will love “Revelation”. In other words, those who have embraced the more melodic side of Saliva with less nu metal excesses will find many elements on the new album that they will like to a superlative degree. On the other hand, those expecting a sound in the style of “Every Six Seconds” or “Back Into Your System”, then they will probably pass by…
However, “Revelation” is in my opinion a nostalgic crossroads where the present intersects with the past and the future of Saliva. And why’s that? There are songs like “Crows” and “How To Be Human” that will delight die-hard Saliva fans. At the same time, “Fractures” and “How To Live” are clear examples of the post-Josey Scott era of Saliva. Finally, there’s the future, which is represented perfectly in “Come Back Stronger” and I dare say that this is how I want Saliva to play on future albums and if they decide to continue as powerful as ever!
Well done and congratulations to Saliva who refuses to give up despite the odds that are seemingly against them!
Highlight: R.I.P. Wayne Swinny!
