Servant of the Mind

After two decades, seven previous studio albums, multi-platinum sales, and sold-out concerts across the globe, Denmark's roots Volbeat have remained stubbornly consistent in wielding massive, power and thrash metal riffs, passionate rockabilly swagger, and punk rock attitude. Eighth album Servant of the Mind continues their M.O. while glossing up their sonic approach (a tad) and re-emphasizing the theatrical potential in guitarist/vocalist Michael Poulsen's songs. Again produced and mixed by longtime collaborator Jacob Hansen, Servant of the Mind is arguably the darkest, loudest, and heaviest album in their catalog --as well as their most accessible. Written in three months, it was recorded in three weeks.With its roiling drumkit and bass intro, opener "Temple of Ekur" is as epic and excessive as its title. The chugging guitar riff, driving tempo, and Poulsen's crystal clean, hooky vocals combine to make it a stadium anthem. "The Sacred Stones" commences with a massive Black Sabbath-li