Catharsis

After hearing all the reviews on the album I was disappointed and uncertain about getting it but I said duck it. At least it comes with a live DVD and MH live is always amazing. so I ordered it anyway. The albums isn’t actually that bad. I dig the songs triple beam, volatile, behind the mask (is amazing on the mellow side) heavy lies the crown, beyond the pale, bastards I actually thought it was a cover because it doesn’t sound like machine Head material, catharsis it’s a nice tune as well. There are a couple of songs that I just don't care for or I guess I haven't really taken the time to listen to. Overall I like most of the album. Rob Flynn has pretty awesome clean vocals and on this CD he uses his clean vocals on a lot of songs. Also the songs are less heavy and have more instrumental stuff which I think its pretty cool and the live DVD just like I expected is awesome.I think probably there are so much haters out there because of his political views. I just don’t understand people that claim freedom of speech is for everyone and say “I don’t agree with your views but I will defend your right to speak freely” when nazis march in the street while at the same time they will bash and belittle someone with the SJW label for calling out a racism or trying to bring attention to something that is clearly wrong. What happened with defending someone’s right to speak freely? Anyways enough of that.This is an alright album but if you are new to machine Head and want to listen to something really good check out the blackening or onto the locust. Those are way better.

I have been listening to MH since the beginning. I remember when their first song came out on MTV, Belgium: Davidian. Holly Molly! What a song! And what an album. One of their top albums. Do I like all their follow-up albums equally well? Nopes! They are people like all of us that want to try new things and evolve. There have been times certain songs I did not like too much. Catharsis reminded me of the good old stuff; I love this album!When I am in need of an MH infusion, I play all their albums chronologically to get a full feeling of their evolution through time. And folks, do you think I love it? Damn, I certainly do. Together with Sepultura, Soulfly, Cavalera Conspiracy, Gojira, Nailbomb, Slayer, Pantera, this band is top-notch!Even if you don't like some of their work as an MH fan, go see them live. I have seen them at about 10 times. Mostly in Belgium, but recently in Houston, Texas. As indicated by my fellow reviewer below, it was just them, MH, 3 hours or more, getting a full-blown infusion of MH. Honestly, the best show I have ever seen in my entire life. With other concerts, I have to see 3 or 4 other bands, before the one I came to see. It is good to discover new gems in the supporting bands, but I am telling you, there is nothing wrong with listening 3 hours to the music of the band you came to see; it is a total blast!!! And it is clear MH feels the same way; they all interact with their audience tremendously. The show is that good, I am debating seeing them again in November, in Austin, Texas. I will be an eternal MH fan!

The latest album took several listens for me to get into it if I'm honest. But I think the material is excellent and after seeing them live recently, I have a greater appreciation for Machine Head as artists in general. They played for over 3 hours, no opening act, and were absolutely astounding. They honestly appeared to be enjoying themselves...even to me what felt like a slog of 3 hours of metal! That's unheard of in this genre and to see them smiling and responding to the crowd was really something.So back to the album...my 5-star review is for the CD+DVD. If you watch the live DVD first you will be blown away by these guys. Even being a year or two ago they bring it and it's an worth the price of admission alone for just the DVD. At the time of this review it's $9.99 for the CD+DVD and I bought a few for friends because it was such a steal!Catharsis itself takes a few listens like I said, but it's solid and feels more natural/improved than previous albums. Catharsis, Kaleidoscope, and Bastards are the stand-outs...and they alone are worth your purchase. If you don't know the history behind Bastards then check youtube for "racism in metal" to hear some amazing honesty. Kudos to these guys.For $10 to get the album and incredible live DVD is bonkers. No brainer even if you've only heard a couple of Machine Head's songs. This duo is the best deal in metal I can think of!

First off, I love Machine Head and have since the beginning. This is an incredibly well written album that is centered around the theme of Catharsis. Each song ties into the overall theme of catharsis which helps make this a great cohesive collection of songs, and not a collection of singles like most bands do today. There are many personal reflections based on world and societal events. These themes aren't always that palatable to most metal fans but I respect Flynn for having the guts to come right out and address the things on his mind. You need to listen to all 1 hour, 15 minutes of this bad boy and really give it a chance and listen to it with an open mind. It is an incredibly heavy album with great melodic elements and a definite in your face attitude. Horns up!

The negativity over this album is undeserved. The band definitely took a chance with the political message, and that is where much of the hate is coming from. Chances are if you agree with the message in this album, you'll appreciate the music. If you don't agree with it, then you won't give it the credit it deserves. Personally, I admire the band for taking a stand for something through their music. There aren't enough metal bands out there that are willing to do so. Catharsis, Volatile, Beyond the Pale and Heavy Lies the Crown are definite highlights on this album, but even risky tracks like Triple Beam actually grew on me with more listens. Rob Flynn's delivery is as raw and brutal as ever, and the musicianship is top notch.

I have been a Machine Head fan since 2001. I love this album. If you with have not heard it or your on the fence go give it a listen or another listen. Electric happy hour.

Don't know why so called Machine Head fans slagged this. It's really good. Looking forward to seeing them on tour again. Check it out, don't listen to the haters.

Great album from Machine Head. I really like all the songs on this and the pressing of the vinyl is superb. As always crunchy guitars and inspired lyrics, world class metal at its finest!

I bought this album becsuse this is my favourite Heave Metal band. The music is produced with excellent result, not seen the DVD yet, so can't comment.

Love Machine Head but not this. 2 stars was being generous. Plenty of quality bands do a dodgy album. Just hope this is machine heads and a return to form awaits. My mates all of the same opinion . Was hoping it was just me but it wasn,t. Burn my eyes still the best by a mile for me. That is just pure metal.