AFI has taken their blend of punk, goth, electro music mystery to an even farther out place and it is damn awesome. Decemberunderground marks yet another leap for AFI. Sure, there are tracks that are remenicent of Sing the Sorrow, but there are also tracks that parallel Black Sails in the Sunset. Overall, however, AFI has proved that they are in fact very capable of delivering new artistic material. Screw what message board haters have to say.
The album opens with the chant-filled "Prelude 12/21" and erupts into the chaotic screams in "Kill Caustic." One thing is for sure, with Decemberunderground, lead singer Davey Havok shows great vocal variety and capabilities as seen with the in-you-face screams of "Affliction" to the mellow verses of "Kiss and Control."
Musically, this album is sort of all over the place. From "Summer Shudder," which sounds huge and arena-rock worthy to the mellow "The Interview," AFI keep listeners interested. Every song sounds like it belongs on the radio. The hooks are definitely there, however, mystical and oftentimes they don't hit you until the second spin of the album. AFI use a lot of electronics and guitar manipulation to deliver a unique sound that sets Decemberunderground far above Sing the Sorrow.
So AFI doesn't sound like the screaming punks they once did, but who cares. They've moved on and so should we. This intricate album is nothing short of stellar and I give it a 10 (out of 10). These songs are meant for the big time and this writer would love to see AFI carry the modern radio rock flag.
Suggested Listening: "The Killing Lights," "Kill Caustic," "Love Like Winter" and "Prelude 12/21"
By: Adam Karol - Senior Editor / Founder
