Year: 2021
Total Time: 42:44   
Label: Nuclear Blast

After leaving KILLSWICH ENGAGE in 2012, Howard Jones has LIGHT THE TORCH as his main occupation. Three years after the very good “Revival”, the band returns with its new work, “You Will Be The Death Of Me”.

Despite the persistent demands of the fans for the release of material that will be closer to KILLSWICH ENGAGE’s style, the band continues to play what expresses it better maintaining its own personality. However, that does not appear in this new album to have any kind of evolution. Here we have a safe model for the band, which offers the confidence of the trampled. However, having in mind the quality of the band’s members, someone expects more than just some catchy songs.

Of course “You Will Be The Death Of Me” is not a bad album. There is no lack of variety in here. If one wants to listen to a more dynamic and aggressive song, “Living With A Ghost” will satisfy him, if you want a more passable and melodic song, “Become The Martyr” is the one that responds to your desires. The cover of Terence Trent D’Arby’s “Sign Your Name” is an attempt from the band to present a song away from its own paths, with the result that is acceptable nicely.

Important to mention, is the experiential element that artists pass through their songs. It is well known that Jones always refers to his personal demons that he occasionally fights, and in combination with the difficult period that guitarist Francesco Artusat went through in his life (after a car accident in which he participated), the result is lyrically rather darker and melancholic than usual.

The amazing performance of the charismatic Howard Jones, who gives his soul (either in his clear or in his heavy vocals) is of course a highlight in the album. Of course, their new work is welcome, hoping for ever better results in their next record.

Rating: 6,5/10
Editor: Fanouris Exintavelonis
Related Link: LIGHT THE TORCH – Facebook Page