It's a cynic's paradise indeed! (Cynic Paradise - Pain)

Member Name: alexela

Product:	Cynic Paradise - Pain
Date:	07/06/09 (87 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Great catchy industrial metal songs

Disadvantages: A song that doesn't have the same energy

Cynic Paradise is the 6th album from Peter Tägtgren's side project Pain, being a big fan of Tägtgren's work in both Pain and Hypocrisy, not to mention many of the artists he has produced for, I had high expectations of this album and I am glad to say I was not disappointed.

We start on full throttle with the aptly titled 'I'm Going In' which really sets the tone for the rest of the album. This is excellent industrial metal, the growling guitars combined with powerful synths and strong electronic sounds. 'Follow Me' featuring Nightwish's Anette Olzen, is a catchy almost danceable anthem, her vocals fitting effortlessly with the upbeat tone of the track.

'Have a Drink on me' particularly stands out because it takes on a completely different sound to the rest of the album. The fast paced industrial sounds are put aside briefly for this blues influenced track.

There's no question that the title of the album is particularly fitting when you listen to the cynicism of the lyrics in songs like 'Monkey Business', 'Generation X', 'Live Fast - Die Young' and 'Feed Us', each having a less than optimistic commentary on aspects of modern society, yet it's not hard to see where such ideas come from! 'Monkey Business' being especially apt when you consider the recent parliamentary expenses scandals.

Track 'No One Knows' doesn't have the same sort of edge as the rest of the album and for me, is the only track I find myself skipping on occasion.

Otherwise though, another great work from Pain filled with songs that should be filling the floors of rock clubs around the country. An excellent purchase for any fan of industrial metal.

Summary: 8/10