Band: Shatter Messiah Album: God Burns Like Flesh Label: Dockyard 1 Rating: 7/10 Website: http://www.shattermessiah.com BUY NOW!

Ah, the return of former Nevermore and Annihilator guitarist Curran Murphy and most importantly, the follow up to the fantastic "Never To Play The Servant". To say that album was a real gem would be an understatement, as I'm sure all that have heard it would agree. I was hoping for more of the same to be honest, and a "Never To Play The Servant - Part 2" would have suited me just fine, but unfortunately they've decided to things a little different this time round. "God Burns Like Flash" is a lot more beefier and aggressive than the debut, with its down-tuned and almost nu-metal style guitars. What is also instantly noticeable is this doesn't immediately strike you as spectacular as "Never To Play The Servant" did. Ultimately, when you compare the two albums, this one simply cannot stand up to its masterpiece of an older brother. There are a few moments on here reminiscent of their debut, which I think is what makes listening to this all the more frustrating. If you like Nevermore, you will probably enjoy this as they come off sounding a lot like them. Where as "Never To Play The Servant" was fresh and original, this one plods along and comes off sounding a little dull and too overly familiar. Chris Rogers Back to Reviews