Resolution Roadrunner**

Virginia's finest have been plying their shtick as groove/ death/metalcore stalwarts for nearly two decades to not inconsiderable success (including two successive Grammy nominations). Studio album No 7 finds Lamb of God in familiar territory, except lead singer Randy Blythe sounds even more alienated with both the world and himself. His death metal-style vocas and Chris Adler's inspired drumming (which resembles a heavyweight boxer pummelling a punchbag) have helped elevate Lamb of God above other bands at the extreme end of the metal spectrum, but they're both acquired tastes. Ghost Walkingis a well-crafted piece of focused aggression, and King Meis the most interesting track, featuring an orchestra and an opera singer. Unfortunately, they're don't stand out enough to make this album truly interesting. One for fans, then. lamb-of-god. com

Download tracks: Ghost Walking, King Me, Barbarossa