Reviewed by Christian Cunningham

Their website reads "Consider yourself warned: this is Pillar reloaded," and I can confidently inform you that the band have returned to the creative form that made 'Fireproof' so outstanding in 2002. 'For The Love Of The Game' is full of all out anthemic tunage, interspersed with the odd crunching breakdown, resulting in a tremendously satisfying platter of musical elements. Ranging from the chunky riffage of the album's title track opener to the lighter, acoustic guitar-driven "Smiling Down", this is a treat for all Pillar fans, old and new alike. The "fist in the air" arena rock choruses are of the most excellent variety and frontman Rob Beckley's desire to see mobs of people singing along at festival appearances is sure to be realised, with tracks like "State Of Emergency" and "Turn It Up" being likely candidates for this job. Hi-octane thrillers like "Reckless Youth" will be whipping up splendidly sweaty moshpits for years to come, but it's not all heavy rock riffing. The excellent production has given the album an extra set of layers, with successive listens producing new moments not picked up first, second or even 10th time around. Although only 10 tracks long, each has been meticulously created and sumptuously finished so it's as if asking for more would simply be being greedy. Every member of the band has upped their game for this opus.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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