IV cover

Released 20 years ago

IV

Godsmack · 2006

61 min · 13 tracks · hard rock

Raw hard rock intensity coupled with introspective lyrics and a blend of melodic and aggressive elements defines Godsmack's sonic landscape on this album.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Livin in Sin Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
  • →
    Speak — This track features a powerful chorus that reflects the album's theme of personal struggle and empowerment, making it an anthem for resilience.
  • →
    Hollow — In 'Hollow', the haunting melody combined with introspective lyrics captures feelings of emptiness and longing, showcasing a more vulnerable side of the band.
  • →
    Shine Down — 'Shine Down' stands out for its dynamic shift between heavy riffs and melodic sections, embodying the band’s signature blend of aggression and reflection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100
Foothills
Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album blends aggressive and melodic elements effectively but lacks standout compositions throughout.

What we noticed

  • The first half of the album maintains a high energy with aggressive guitar riffs and driving rhythms, while the second half shifts to more introspective and melodic tracks.
  • Several tracks feature dynamic shifts between soft verses and heavy choruses, creating a contrast that emphasizes lyrical themes.
Composition 25% of the score
6/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
5/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo engagement
  • introspective melodies for reflection
  • consistent flow for focused listening
  • cathartic moments of release

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer instant gratification tracks
  • seek upbeat party energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — Debuted at number 1, solidifying Godsmack's commercial success and reputation.
Career context
Released in 2006, IV marked Godsmack's fourth studio album, following their successful self-titled debut and the multi-platinum Awake. At this point in their career, the band had solidified their status in the alternative metal scene, showcasing a mature sound while exploring deeper lyrical themes compared to earlier works.
Stylistic neighbors
Disturbed· Seether· Breaking Benjamin

Tracklist

  • 1 Livin in Sin Start here 4:39
  • 2 Speak 3:57
  • 3 The Enemy 4:07
  • 4 Shine Down 5:01
  • 5 Hollow 4:32
  • 6 No Rest for the Wicked 4:37
  • 7 Bleeding Me 3:37
  • 8 Voodoo Too 5:26
  • 9 Temptation 4:06
  • 10 Mama 5:14
  • 11 One Rainy Day 7:21
  • 12 Safe and Sound 4:19
  • 13 I Thought 4:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata