THREAT SIGNAL – THREAT SIGNAL CD Review

ARTIST: Threat Signal
TITLE: Threat Signal
YEAR: 2011
LABEL: Nuclear Blast / Sonic Unyon in Canada
REVIEWED BY: Shawn Lefebvre

On October 11, 2011 metalcore band Threat Signal from Hamilton, ON is releasing their 9-track Self Titled third album on Nuclear Blast Records. Despite numerous line-up changes and internal issues experienced between band members since their start in 2003, Threat Signal have always maintained a consistency that is unsurpassed and this album is no exception. It’s a very focused and aggressive album that also offers melodic breaks coupled next to blistering fast and tasteful guitar solos.

Threat Signal teamed up with mega producer Zeuss who’s work with Hatebreed, All That Remains and Born Of Osiris garnered him the credit of “musical mastermind” asper the band. Sonically this album is clearly superior to 2006's "Under Reprisal" and is an assault to the senses, it’s very thick yet pronounced and clear. The album really captures the essence of what Threat Signal have come to be. The songs are mature, the musicianship is tight and concise, the lyrics on this album are dark but strong.

The success and growth of this band is due in large part to singer Jon Howard’s ability to maintain control of this metal train. The thickness of the records is courtesy of guitarists Travis Montgomery and Chris Feener experimenting with 7 string guitars, creating a very low yet punchy and tight sound – not unlike that of djent metal band Periphery but with much more low-mids, bottom end character without ever sounding muddy. The use of ENGL and Mesa/Boogie Mark IV amps were clearly a winning combination coupled with high output pickups on the 25.5” and 27” scale necks of the Ibanez, Music Man and ESP guitars used during the recording of the album at Planet-Z Recordings in Hadley, Massachusetts.

In order to offer material to their fans during the writing and recording process, Threat Signal released a number of “behind the scenes” self-filmed videos on YouTube. This sort of display is almost common-place by today’s standards but offers their fan base a unique look into the world of Threat Signal off-stage.

It’s my opinion that this record is in line with what Threat Signal fans have come to expect. It’s not a far stretch from their 2006 album “Under Reprisal” and it may not win over a large number of new fans but this album will most definitely keep Threat Signal fans happy both in and out of the pit.

Standout tracks: New World Order, Trust In None, Death Before Dishonor

TRACKLISTING:

1. Uncensored
2. Comatose
3. New World Order
4. Trust In None
5. Face The Day
6. Fallen Disciples
7. Disposition
8. Death Before Dishonor
9. Buried Alive

iTunes Exclusive Bonus Track:
10. Resistance