Malevolence | Where Only The Truth Is Spoken | Nuclear Blast Records

 

Malevolence is a band that has built a strong presence in the metalcore and groove thrash scenes, known for their intense sound and powerful live performances. Formed in Sheffield, the group has consistently honed their musical craft, delivering heavy riffs, unrelenting rhythms, and raw emotion in their work. Malevolence's fourth studio album, “Where Only The Truth Is Spoken,” was produced by Josh Wilbur, a Grammy Award-winning producer known for his work with bands like Lamb Of God and Gojira. This album marks a step into a new chapter for the band, with a more refined and expansive approach to both their songwriting and production.

"Where Only The Truth Is Spoken" offers a clear and forceful statement in the realms of melodic metalcore and groove thrash metal. Recorded in California at Studio 606 with producer Josh Wilbur at the helm, this album benefits from a production that brings a sense of weight and clarity to every track. The technical setup—a nod to history with its ties to influential albums from the past—is used here to capture the energetic and direct performance that Malevolence is known for.

The album maintains a focused intensity throughout. Its sound is supported by robust guitars, driving drums, and vocals that carry an earnest and determined spirit. Songs like "If It's All The Same To You" serve as representative examples of this approach, encapsulating the band’s commitment to honest lyrical themes that emphasize loyalty and integrity. The overall mix preserves a balance between aggressive impact and well-defined musical layering, ensuring that each element is audible without overshadowing the others.

By choosing to record outside their home country, the band embraced a new environment and production approach that adds a fresh layer to their familiar sound. This shift was handled with care, resulting in an album that is both true to Malevolence’s roots and indicative of their willingness to explore under different conditions without compromising their identity.

Score: 8.4