Incarnate

A sullenness hangs over *Incarnate*, as Killswitch Engage’s penchant for breakneck tempos and searing fretwork gives way to churning grooves and foreboding melodies. It’s a shift in focus that plays out across “Embrace the Journey...Upraised,” which sees their metalcore blitz downshift into a slower, thicker rhythmic chug. “The Great Deceit” is just as telling: Though the guitars certainly ratchet up their frenzy, they never break free of the drums’ grinding pace. Singer Jesse Leach is a growling, grunting, crooning powerhouse throughout, but especially on the soaring and uniquely symphonic “We Carry On.”

When metalcore hit an impetus, KILLSWITCH ENGAGE nearly did likewise with the unfortunate departure of Howard Jones, who left to battle Type 2 diabetes and depression. For many, Jones remains a brave voice along with Lajon Witherspoon of SEVENDUST for bringing soul to a genre that went a step furthe...

Eddie Sims reviews the brand new record from metalcore behemoths Killswitch Engage, Incarnate!

The leaders of the new wave of American heavy metal return with their crushing and heart-wrenching seventh album, Incarnate.