Californian heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold was already established before unleashing their self-titled album in 2007. The act was heralded for their no-nonsense approach to songwriting. And with their significant flair carrying them through, they embarked on developing something that truly blew away their competitors. This disc prompted many people who idolised the likes of AC/DC and Metallica to take notice, to cascade into this mix of metal and ruthless lyricism which the album had in droves.

Led by M. Shadows, a charismatic and enigmatic force, and a mean songwriter, Avenged Sevenfold drilled into their music newly found momentum and a surge of endless possibilities. When the self-titled album landed, people grew into the frame, and listened on to a record which held so many songs that could have been released as singles. Every track meant something. They were designed for the people who outgrew the monotony of their hometowns, who walked through suburbia in the heat and who tried to kill the feeling of disenchantment.

Shadows sang with vigor and resoluteness too, peppering every song with energy and thrust. And he did not bombard the record, but eased his vocals into it, and he never sounded so endearing and fresh. From the start to the conclusion, the record worked but was not completely flawless. It dazzled, truly captivating the fans, and bringing forth an arena vibe.

The album was also perfect for festivals and arenas, even stadiums. It had that burgeoning sound, which was seamless, and unadulterated, from the percussion through the technical riffs engineered by pioneer Synyster Gates. Although unbroken to some, many fans disbanded from the aura, citing that the album was less technical than previous LP’s. And it did appear to be more polished than, say, City Of Evil, which was classed as a seminal release.

Although the sheen gleamed brightly, the self-titled record aimed to please, and it did. “Critical Acclaim” opened the record with forceful guitar riffs and dominant screams. Shadows showed his powerful range and the monologue astonished. “Almost Easy” was a single off the bat. It stunned with those perfectly controlled guitar parts and a solo that did not overpower. “Afterlife” was the standout track, a highlight, an astounding piece of metal music. The chorus was an infectious morsel too. “Unbound (The Wild Ride)” showcased Shadow’s intricate vocals yet again. “Lost” started with a wonderful intro that didn’t bore but enthralled.

Avenged Sevenfold gripped their fans and thwarted the post album blues with their self-titled behemoth. It came like a cannonball out of nowhere and became a ground-breaking LP.

-Mark McConville