Review by Frost on December 17, 2021.

When I read on Blabbermouth that Superjoint Ritual was coming back, albeit under a new name (just the same name sans 'Ritual'), I was so excited. Being a fan of their albums (mostly the second, not real big on the first), I was psyched for the announcement of a new full-length being produced. What was even better, it was set to be released on Phil's own label, Housecore Records, which meant he had pretty much full creative control to work on his music and handle it the way he saw fit. What was even better, he got Jimmy Bower back on guitars, who pretty much provided most of the great riffs on each previous outing the band did. And with a new drummer and bassist providing fresh blood, as well as tour dates across North America, things were looking more and more promising for the future of Superjoint.

Come November 11, 2016, and their comeback album is upon us. How is it? Well, if I may be frank, it's the best goddamn thing they've ever done. When I bought it, I didn't even know what it expect. It had been thirteen years since their last album. I wasn't prepared for the bashing I was going to endure the instant I pressed play. The first song starts up and there's nothing holding back the sound from smashing your face in like a pancake. 'Today And Tomorrow' is symbolic of what Superjoint have turned into: a thoroughly pissed off band with a shitload of topics to spit venom about. The riffs throughout this album are utterly amazing and crushing, with every song delivering one devastating riff after another. There's very few riffs that cause you to lose your interest or attention.

The production on this album is great, as well. Every instrument is clear, shining through with the sheer power and aggression that the band is known for. The production clearly isn't squeaky clean, but there is enough dirt and grime on this album's body that give it a uniquely raw presence, adding to the energy this thing already gives with the destructive performances on display by each band member. From the drums to the bass to the guitars, each and every member dedicated themselves to their role to deliver one hell of a product that is incredibly powerful. This is especially potent on probably the best song, 'Mutts Bite Too', where the thrashy hardcore nature is delivered with a fast-paced bass riff and a slamming drum section that crushes, crushes, crushes!

Philip Anselmo is older and his vocals show that. They're gruffer, meaner, and heavier and they're a much better fit here than his other experimental sludge-based Illegals project. Wherein there he just sounds tired and bored, he sounds totally revitalized and full of energy on here. It's like this project is made for him as opposed to Philip H. Anselmo And The Illegals, which is a project that feels overall pointless and a waste of time and energy whereas Superjoint sounds like it has a purpose to existing.

From beginning to end, this album kicks your ass and leaves you in a miserable puddle on the floor, unrepentant and unapologetic. These are clearly the best set of songs the band has ever written. No song is too long, too short, or too nonsensical. There are a few funny moments woven in here. On 'Asshole', for example, someone's dog walks into the booth and barks twice, and Phil burps to start off the blistering title track. Overall, this album is a fantastic comeback for this band. Plenty of great sludge meets hardcore meets thrash moments that leave no room for breathing 'til the very end. If you weren't left impressed by their last album, but still felt there was potential in Superjoint after that, then this album will definitely sway you to becoming a fan.

Rating: 8.5 out of 10