Corrosion of Conformity - In the Arms of God

Genre metal Publisher Sanctuary Records External Links Official Website Sanctuary Records

Corrosion of Conformity has been a staple of the rock/metal music scene for almost one quarter of a century. They have played arenas, have had James Hetfield guest on an album, and been "reviewed" by Beavis and Butt-head. They really can't get much better at this point in the game. However, their new album is quite good, enough to make me want to go to the show and nod my head as they rock out. I confess; I am that kid in a pair of Dickies to the side that just nods his head; a stander.

In The Arms Of God starts with the track "Stone Breaker," a slow organ intro into the fuss of blues based rock. The guitar's distortion reminds me of the late Dimebag Darrell's setup (who is mentioned in the liner notes, RIP), the musical rhythm styling being reminiscent as well. With Woody Weatherman on guitar duties since the beginning, COC has delivered many different styles. It is this versatility that keeps the band fresh in my mind. Vocalist Pepper Keenan (no relationship to Tool's Maynard James) also plays guitar in the band. The lead and rhythm are tight on this record. The drum tracks (provided by fellow New Orleans drummer Stanton Moore of Galactic, whose studio was used in the making of this album) are crisp and have a deep pocket groove. In standard metal album fashion, the bass usually follows the guitar, although on some tracks bassist Mike Dean gets his chance come out of the dark for a short while.

Mike also lurks on the album as a co-engineer. The production on this album is top-notch for the most part. All the instruments are easily discernible and none are overly loud. However, at times the engineer and producer seem to get a little over zealous. On "Paranoid Opiod," they bring out the "Iron Man" vocal effect directly from Black Sabbath. Some consider it homage, but I think that it seems a little tacky since the album already rocks.

Corrosion of Conformity has been at this game for a long time. If you want some groovy metal to listen to, then pick up In The Arms Of God. Or go see them on tour with Motorhead.