Reroute to Remain

The concept is not a bad idea. They wanted to try electronics. Being a huge fan of industrial bands such as Front Line Assembly and Skinny Puppy, I have a feel of what electronics should sound like. Well, In Flames decided to give it a shot and they failed. The problem with Reroute to Remain is that the electronics sound way too forced. Music should not be forced. It should come out with ease. If you need to force yourself to play Jazz on the drums then you CANT play jazz. Well, In Flames forced the electronics here. That's not to say the electronics sound bad, they are quite good, but they do not belong in the songs. The title track is a classic example. It seems they just added them to make them sound different and challenging. Don't get me wrong, I want bands to challenge themselves, but there is a degree in which you challenge and just come off sounding like idiots. But enough of the electronics, there are also other problems.
The vocals are suffering from the same thing that killed Fear Factory's later release, they are becoming too weak. The death vocals sound too weak and offer no substance. To make matters worse the clean vocals are EXTREMELY forced. I want my music to flow with ease not with this forced actions. Oh well.
The guitars are also too weak. Are their two guitarists here? Before they had all sorts off riffs and licks. Now they are just struming. The guitars almost feel as if they were put on the back and weaken. I know we dont all want to loudamp Syndrone that plagues modern American music but it doesnt have to be nonexistant!
The band make a weak effort. Is there hope for the future? Most likely. I have the cd. I probably will not sell it, but it leaves a lot to be desired. Better luck next time guys!