Soulfly

"3"
(Roadrunner Records)  

The aptly titled "3" signifies a symbolic stronghold, as much to do with Soulfly's spiritual mindset, and singular identity as anything. It's more than just another record, it's a religion; a belief; a depth-ridden deliverance housed within an almighty riff and sonic fury, attributes that main gatekeeper Max Cavalera's sought for, fought for and captured forthright on the band's definitive work to date. An album wrought of raging themes and battle-ready anthems-"Downstroy," "Seek 'n Strike," "Call To Arms," prosperity through unity, "Enterfaith," "One Nation," and frighteningly faithful renditions reminiscent of "Chaos" era Sepultura-"Tree Of Pain," "Four Elements," the latter a minute and a half of root-digging intensity; All of it commingled with fleeting though flavorful breaks and tribal overtures, "Soulfly III," "Zumbi," and even a moment of silence for "9-11-01." If there was ever any doubt on their first two getting acquainted offerings, and let's admit it, there were some hollow moments particularly for the many still stung by Cavalera's abrupt break, much of them are eliminated here. "3" is a focused work summed up well by many of "L.O.T.M's" lines: "No follow no trends… We are here to say… Against all odds we go, follow our hearts and souls… Last of the Mohicans."

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