The latest release by Soulfly, fronted by former Sepultura frontman Max Cavalera, is another phenomenal composition of hard pounding tribal drums, rough vocals, and abrasive guitar work. My expectations were extremely high for this release, for Soulfly's debut album blew me away with its intense tribal drum work of New York drummer Roy Mayorga. I'm a big fan of experimentation and pushing the boundaries; Max Cavalera does this to a "T," by incorporating a variety of different types of tribal instruments, music styles, as well as a whole slew of artists.

Max has chosen some artists that have in this shredder's opinion, excellent all around vocals, especially in terms of range which help to balance Max's rough "death" vocals. Some of the big name vocalists that are packed on Primitive are: Chino Moreno of the Deftones on "Pain", Sean Lennon on "Son Song", and Corey Taylor(8) of Slipknot on "JumpDaF**kUp". Though I really feel for him in the loss of his son, I must say I'm somewhat glad Max has written a few songs that are not about that subject (unlike artists such as Trent Reznor, who stick to one subject and, in time, can get boring). Though I like the fact Max is experimenting, I have to say he should stick to ripping up the guitar and giving us shredders something to thrash to, not turn-tables and rapping. Come on Max, you're not gonna change your name to DJ Max are you? Leave the DJ-ing to DJs.

Primitive is pure energy with a few tracks here and there that have interludes of some of the sickest, soulful drum work I've heard in a while. I have to give it up for Roy Mayorga. One question, any solo stuff? Dont know if he's good or not? Check out tracks 8 and 10 and crank up your speakers till your chest starts pounding to Roy's tribal drum work. Screw it, listen to every track cranked up!

Haven't gotten this release yet? Well, get your butt out to your local music watering hole and pick up Soulfly's Primitive. And on your way home pick up some tribal face paint, 'cause you're gonna need it when listening to this intense tribal/metal mixture.

Top Pick: "JumpDaF**kUp" (5:11)

Reviewed by <-R.S.C.R->

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