Only the strong will survive after enduring the relentless assault of Trail of Lies. This latest offering hits like a sledgehammer, delivering crushing pits, chant-ready sing-alongs, and stage-dive-fueled chaos that will leave hardcore fans more than satisfied after the long wait for new material. Strength is the defining theme of this album—both in its message and in its sheer sonic weight—and Trail of Lies does not fall short in bringing the beefy, ironclad sound they’re known for.

Right from the start, the album immerses you in its world of brute force. The drums sound absolutely massive, carrying a tribal intensity that taps into something primal. They don’t just provide rhythm; they demand movement. Every kick, snare, and cymbal hit feels like it was designed to send bodies flying. The bass and guitars work together masterfully, creating a thick, impenetrable wall of sound. The band knows when to inject subtle moments of groove, whether through a well-placed bass twang or an unexpectedly bouncy riff, keeping things dynamic without sacrificing brutality.

Vocally, there’s a noticeable shift from past releases. The raspiness has given way to something more refined and husky, like the voice of someone who has been through hell and emerged stronger. There’s an emotional weight to the vocal delivery that makes every lyric hit harder, almost as if the vocalist has been sharpened by personal trials. The guest vocal appearances are used strategically, adding layers of intensity without feeling forced or out of place.

Production-wise, this is Trail of Lies at their most polished. The mix is balanced and layered beautifully, allowing every element to breathe without losing that raw, visceral energy that defines them. It’s a rare case of a hardcore album sounding both massive and natural, without feeling overproduced or sterile.

That said, a couple of small critiques come to mind. Some of the interludes feel unnecessary and could have been seamlessly merged into the tracks they lead into. They serve a purpose in setting the tone, but they don’t quite stand on their own as individual moments. Additionally, by the time the album reaches its latter half, some of the breakdowns start to feel a bit too familiar. They still hit like a truck, but their similarity in structure makes them slightly less impactful when heard back-to-back.

Still, those are minor gripes in the grand scheme of things. If you’re looking to get ignorant, build some muscle, and leave everything on the dance floor, then Trail of Lies has provided the perfect soundtrack. This is an album built for destruction, and it delivers on every front. Take the Trail of Lies path and fuck shit up!