Sevendust: One
Currently on tour across the US, Sevendust return with their 15th studio album, ‘One’, set for release on 1st May via Napalm Records. Having been a staple of the groove metal scene since forming in 1994, Sevendust have long since proven their place within the genre – yet ‘One’ feels less like a reminder and more like a statement, further cementing their status as groove metal titans.
Opening with ‘One’, the backbone of the title track is a riff that drives the song forward, with an atmospheric chorus that balances heaviness with a dreamlike quality. The solos feel fresh and contrast with the bass, rhythm guitar and echoing vocals to create something otherworldly. A strong opener that catapults you straight into the album, it’s clear why they chose this as the album’s namesake! ‘Unbreakable’ is an anthem that inspires listeners to remain resilient in challenging moments, whether personal or tied to broader issues. Blending keyboards with guitars and powerful lyrics, it’s a solid follow-up to the first track.
‘Is This The Real You’ is a standout, with an opening riff and tuning reminiscent of ‘Twisted Transistor’ by Korn. It feels like part of the classic Sevendust back catalogue, yet remains original. Bass- and rhythm-driven tracks are a given in this genre, and this song delivers both in spades. ‘Threshold’ is another banger and already has a music video. Fans of stop-motion animation will love it, as it tells the story of two record executives digging up the band’s corpses and reanimating them, Frankenstein-style. This could be metaphorical, or perhaps a commentary on the industry creating “new” music from long-dead artists using AI. It’s a great track on its own and primes you for the next standout. ‘We Won’ is another quintessential Sevendust track that will likely become a staple in their live repertoire – both contemporary and distinctly their own.
Another favourite of mine is ‘Construct’. It’s deliciously heavy while maintaining a surreal atmosphere – the track, and the album as a whole, feels like the soundtrack to a cyberpunk film set in the future. Lajon Witherspoon’s versatile vocals add further layers and give the songs their characteristic sound. ‘Brightside’ has a haunting intro, contrasting the title of the track; biting and weighty both lyrically and sonically. ‘Blood Price’ sounds as heavy as you would hope from the track name, the breakdowns in particular crushing and crunchy. The guitar solos enhance the rest of the instruments without feeling overdone. The final track, ‘Misdirection’ begins gently, building in intensity as the song continues but managing to maintain an ethereal feel – the album as a whole conjures another world as you listen. ‘One’ will definitely leave you wanting more Sevendust!