You've got to feel for God Forbid. Throughout their fifteen year career they always seem to have played second fiddle to somebody, whether it was touring with the likes of Killswitch Engage or having an album come out at the same time as a host of other big hitters. Which is a shame, because over the years God Forbid have been one of the most consistent modern metal bands, turning out both excellent albums and live shows.

And following on in that fine tradition, 'Equilibrium' is another damn fine slab of modern metal. In fact through the thirteen tracks on offer here God Forbid turn out some stunning heavy metal. Huge driving riffs, soaring vocals, chops aplenty, some solos to make the hairs on your neck stand up, and a sound and maturity that is staggering in places. Maybe that assessment sounds a little overblown but when you hear the likes of 'My Rebirth' and 'Where We Come From' with their mix of riffs and melodies and the air-guitar inducing solo on 'Overcome' you might actually find yourself agreeing with my stellar appraisal.

The one thing that does come across throughout the album is just how mature and solid the entire album is. It just keeps coming at you. The driving riffs of 'A Few Good Men' take some beating and when they really let rip like on 'This Is Who I Am' you're tempted to say "Killswitch Who?"

All in all, not so much a return to form as a mere affirmation of the form they've always been in. Hopefully 'Equilibrium' will finally get God Forbid the recognition they so justly deserve.

http://www.victoryrecords.com/

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To pick up a copy of 'Equilibrium' - CLICK HERE