THE UNGUIDED
Father Shadow
NAPALM
Former Sonic Syndicate members continue to add muscle to melody
Sweden’s The Unguided have spent the better part of a decade juggling melody and heaviness, teaming guttural screams with a polished melodeath foundation. Recent albums have introduced a more synth-driven metalcore edge, an evolution continued by this fifth release. The energetic and positively aggressive Crown Prince Syndrome is an exuberant display of soaring vocals, shred and electronic flourishes while Stand Alone Complex has a similarly strong pull with weighty grooves, catchy hooks and anthemic choruses. Despite the decision to rehash three tracks from certain members’ Sonic Syndicate days, Father Shadow remains a satisfying stomp down a well-trodden path.