Valletta - Official Website


Come Alive

United States Country of Origin: United States

Come Alive
Send eMail
Buy on: Bandcamp
Type: Full-Length
Release Date: July 14th, 2023
Label: Independent
Genre: Black'n'Roll, Groove
2. Serpents Of Solomon
3. Saint
4. Criminal
5. Soot & Ash
6. Bringing The Worst


Review by Adam M on January 31, 2023.

This album offers an unusual similarity to older Tribulation but it is more traditional in flavor and doesn't completely carry on the melodic death metal traits of said band. Instead, we have a mixed affair that goes over different styles and manages to maintain the right amount of catchiness to draw the listener in. There is a melodic flair to the songs, although it isn't as much of a death metal one but it has the right ingredients for a fun and moving listen.

The drumming is pounding, quite aggressive and leads the rhythm section nicely. The singing is intense and ferocious making it emotionally gripping and with the guitars that are hugely melodic and manage not to loom over the rest of the instruments Valletta present itself as a very cohesive group of musicians. The one unfortunate thing about this one is the fact that nothing really stands out particularly from the whole. We're left with strong musical performances that could have been pushed further and album that could have been a bit more exciting.

Now there isn’t really any huge downside to it and the flaws I'm pointing out are probably just my opinion but I do hope that in the future they'll continue to explore adding more nuances to the mix. There are also similarities to Arch Enemy that are impossible to escape, but in many ways this album is actually more exciting than that band's last opus. As it stands, this is recommended listen to melodic metal fans whether it be of the death metal genre or not and also to fans that are simply looking for an enjoyable metal experience.

Rating: 7 out of 10

   542