After hearing the band's progression from Savage Land to Temple of
Two Suns, I could only wonder what level the band would reach with their
third album. Mob Rules has certainly delivered the goods in a big way:
this release will surely show up in my top 10 list for 2002. Just as the band
improved its sound from Savage Land to Temple of Two Suns, the
band has again taken a big step forward with Hollowed Be Thy Name.
Of course, the core sound that is Mob Rules remains fully intact for
Hollowed Be Thy Name. Each and every song contains addictive melodies,
tight production, and fabulous lead vocals. However, the song structures are
even more clever and complex than before. From the thunderous title track to
the epic Way of the World concluding the album (featuring Roland Grapow),
the well thought symphonic arrangements give each track a thicker, bigger sound
than they have achieved in the past. The symphonic elements remind me a lot
of what Rage tried to do with their Ghosts album, although Hollowed
Be Thy Name is certainly much different. Peavey Wagner of Rage does
contribute on one track, How the Gypsy Was Born, so that could explain
why that album comes to mind. While I enjoy the Ghosts album of Rage
a lot, I think it could have been better had they not sacrificed so much of
their power on that album. Fortunately, Mob Rules has added to their
sound with very effective and thick symphonic arrangements, but they have not
sacrificed their power at all. House On Fire and How The Gypsy Was
Born offer the only real mellow moments of the disc, but both songs are
certainly as worthy as the other tracks of being on this album. Other than that,
there are seven powerful tracks with an occasional nod to hard rock and one
brief instrumental. Simply put, there is not a boring moment on this album.
I am pleased to tell you that each of the songs is of high quality and maintains
the listener's interest after multiple listens. Anyone that enjoyed either of
the band's first two albums will certainly enjoy this one as well.
In a time where so many copy cat power metal bands are competing for attention
in the metal scene, Mob Rules delivers an album with a sound all their
own that is unquestionably worth your attention. If you like power metal and/or
melodic music, I strongly recommend this album and then work your way back to
the band's first two albums after you experience this one.