Reviewed by Tony Cummings

Extreme metal pioneers Living Sacrifice may only have three new songs in their latest release, but the album opens up their 15 year career in a reverse chronology of some of the band's finest work from the albums 'Conceived In Fire' (2002), 'The Hammering Process' (2000), 'This Is Solid State Vol 1' (1998), 'Reborn' (1997), 'Inhabit' (1994), 'Nonexistent' (1992) and 'Living Sacrifice' (1991). These tracks are blended seamlessly into one coherent album concept. Of the new material, the opening track "In Christ" establishes the album perfectly with growling lyrics boldly stating the band's faith and trust in Jesus Christ with a clarity that is rare among extreme metal bands. After the treat of new material, the band takes us gradually back in time, revealing how well the band have established their sound, which they have maintained across various line-ups. The CD is a great listen for old and new fans of Living Sacrifice, and a must-have for a great extreme metal collection. If you only buy one Living Sacrifice album, get this one!

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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