Reviewed by Ian Webber

The deep South credentials of this Alabama-based metal outfit are underlined from the outset as the album kicks off with a growing cacophony of bullfrogs and cicadas which eventually give way to a driving bluegrass guitar riff. Building on their previous two releases, Maylene soon break out into a mix of groove metal and Southern rock. A metalcore feel is added to the overall sound by the smoky growls of ex-Underoath frontman Dallas Taylor. Able to scream with the best of them, he also mixes in clean vocals that exude power and depth. Compared to their earlier releases, this offering provides a greater variety of rhythms and tempo and has a much cleaner, professional production. "Just A Shock" benefits from this with its instantly memorable, sing along chorus and the rocked up lap steel blues of "Step Up (I'm On It)" has the energy of a real foot stomper. The Dixieland elements of this recording are carried through to the end with the acoustic blues of "Oh Lonely Grave". After its quiet intro we are treated to a driving metal anthem that highlights what Maylene do best, blending a variety of styles that do not traditionally sit well together. Pretty impressive.

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