Unto the Locust
Machine Head · 2011
48 min · 7 tracks · thrash metal
A relentless fusion of thrash and groove metal, punctuated by intricate melodies and aggressive lyricism.
Top tracks — play these first
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I Am Hell (Sonata in C#): I. Sangre Sani / II. I Am Hell / III. Ashes to the Sky Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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I Am Hell (Sonata in C#) — This epic opener blends orchestral elements with brutal riffs, setting a dramatic tone for the album. Its multi-part structure exemplifies the band's innovative approach to songwriting.
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Locust — The title track encapsulates the band's signature sound, combining aggressive instrumentation with incisive lyrics that critique societal issues. Its catchy chorus showcases Machine Head's ability to meld brutality with melody.
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Darkness Within — This track stands out for its introspective lyrics and slower tempo, providing a haunting contrast to the album's heavier moments. It highlights vocalist Robb Flynn's lyrical vulnerability and emotional delivery.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and technical execution, balancing aggression with melody.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a 7-minute track that features multiple sections, shifting from aggressive riffs to melodic interludes.
- Several tracks incorporate tempo changes, alternating between fast-paced thrash sections and slower, groove-oriented passages.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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 progression
- cathartic release through intensity
- intricate riffs demand attention
- reflective moments amidst aggression
Maybe skip if you
- prefer quick, upbeat tracks
- seek light-hearted listening experiences
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Late Career Highlight — Shows continued vitality after lineup changes and mixed previous reception.
- Career context
- Released on September 27, 2011, Unto the Locust was Machine Head's seventh studio album, marking their return to form after the mixed reception of The Blackening in 2007. The band had undergone lineup changes and embraced a more collaborative writing process, leading to a record that showcases their evolution while remaining rooted in their aggressive sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Lamb of God· Pantera· Killswitch Engage
Tracklist
- 1 I Am Hell (Sonata in C#): I. Sangre Sani / II. I Am Hell / III. Ashes to the Sky Start here 8:26
- 2 Be Still and Know 5:44
- 3 Locust 7:37
- 4 This Is the End 6:12
- 5 Darkness Within 6:28
- 6 Pearls Before the Swine 7:20
- 7 Who We Are 7:11
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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