The Coffin Train cover

The Coffin Train

Diamond Head · 2019

49 min · 10 tracks · heavy metal

A gritty amalgamation of classic heavy metal riffs and modern production, laced with an undercurrent of lyrical introspection.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Belly of the Beast Start here — Opening the album with thunderous energy, this track encapsulates the band's signature sound while introducing themes of inner turmoil and conflict.
  • →
    The Sleeper — This track features a haunting prelude that transitions into powerful verses, highlighting both melodic and aggressive elements that define the album’s dynamic range.
  • →
    Death by Design — With its intricate guitar work and thought-provoking lyrics, this track stands out as a commentary on personal choices and consequences, resonating deeply with listeners.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album combines classic heavy metal elements with modern production, showcasing solid songwriting and performance.

What we noticed

  • The first three tracks establish a heavy, driving tempo, while the fourth introduces a slower, more contemplative pace.
  • Several songs feature intricate guitar harmonies that are layered over straightforward drum patterns, creating a rich texture.
  • The album includes interludes like 'The Sleeper (Prelude)' that serve to bridge thematic elements between tracks.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 3/10

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

  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • long, immersive listening sessions
  • gradual builds and payoffs
  • wave-like pacing throughout

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality after a long career and lineup changes.
Themes
inner turmoil· personal consequences· heavy metal legacy
Career context
Released on May 24, 2019, The Coffin Train marked Diamond Head's first studio album since their reunion in 2008. This record came after a period of lineup changes and a return to form, solidifying their legacy in the heavy metal scene while also appealing to a new generation of listeners.
Stylistic neighbors
Metallica· Iron Maiden· Judas Priest
New to Diamond Head? Find your way in →

Tracklist

  • 1 Belly of the Beast Start here 4:33
  • 2 The Messenger 5:15
  • 3 The Coffin Train 6:10
  • 4 Shades of Black 4:39
  • 5 The Sleeper (Prelude) 0:57
  • 6 The Sleeper 5:44
  • 7 Death by Design 4:43
  • 8 Serrated Love 6:19
  • 9 The Phoenix 5:38
  • 10 Until We Burn 5:56

What to play next

Diamond Head
Listen next

Diamond Head

2016

Continues the modern heavy metal sound with refined songwriting and energy.
All Will Be Revealed
Go back to

All Will Be Revealed

2005

Sets the stage with a mix of classic influences and modern elements.
Full Diamond Head discography Where to start with Diamond Head Artists like Diamond Head
heavy metal

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata