NEVERMORE's last disc, 2003's "Enemies of Reality" was a chaotic ball of twine that alternated spectacular highs and unfocused rhythm twists, like a bastardized guitar-charged Excedrin ad. Practically all needles were buried past ten, guitars battled viciously jockeying for attention, and multiple drum tracks ticked and crashed in every direction. But when the smoke cleared, not one dang melody stuck in your melon.

Thankfully, "This Godless Endeavor" is composed of a more linear and less eratic set of songs. At times, the results are spectacular. "Bittersweet Feast" rains down fiery hunks of metal all around before moving seamlessly into some fluid, adrenalized guitar licks from Jeff Loomis and new recruit Steve Smyth. The 9-minute title track also shines, bobbing and weaving impressively through several tempo changes and giving Smyth and Loomis multiple opportunities to drop your jaw.

Not every track on the disc is a keeper, and although the smoldering scents of MAIDEN and QUEENSRŸCHE hang heavy in the air, it's not always enough to keep your interest. More than a few moments on the record showcase too much guitar spice and not enough discernable songcraft. The ballad "Sentient 6" begins with a sinister melody of guitar and keys, eventually moving into a formidable, chunky midpaced passage. Dane's mad scientist vocal swells beckon that some great earsplitting insanity is right around the corner. But about five minutes in, it becomes obvious that the song has stalled in second gear and never gets you testifyin' to the lawd of the mosh.

Despite it's flaws, "This Godless Endeavor" is NEVERMORE's most solid and impressive record to date. But the question looms, with 7 albums now under their belt, when will the band finally raise the bar and blow us all away with a metal masterpiece or at least something that rivals the first SANCTUARY record? Only time will tell.

- Marchman

OFFICIAL SITE: www.nevermore.tv

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