Review : HAMMERS OF MISFORTUNE – “The Locust Years”

Hammers Of Misfortune - The Locust Years
Re-Released: 2010Aug03 (US)
Label: Metal Blade
Rating: 4/5

This is the re-release of The Locust Years, the third album by Hammers Of Misfortune. Originally released in 2006, this album marked the departure of Mike Scalzi and the return of Chewy on drums. Their overall sound evolved yet again on this album, introducing a more progressive sound while toning down the folk elements.

The title track gets things off to a start with a decent mixture of thrash and doom with John Cobbett and Jamie Meyers sharing vocal duties. The sound is comparable to modern day bands with a progressive influence, such as Baroness and Pelican. “We Are The Widows” changes things up, introducing new member Sigrid Sheie, incorporating the use of piano for a track that has a sorrowful feel to it. “Trot Out The Dead” returns to the progressive side of things. “Famine’s Lamp” is an acoustic ballad that may feel out of place at first. But, as you listen along, you will know exactly how it fits within the realm of the band, with a soft, somber feel to it. “Chastity Rides” expands upon the use of interludes with a focus on guitars and organ. “Election Day” is an instrumental with a slightly psychedelic feel to it. “Widow’s Wall” returns to the somber, slow feel displayed on the second track. Piano dominates the signature, followed by soft female vocals. I feel that this album is an improvement upon the first two albums, however, I liked the way that The August Engine incorporated more folk. Regardless, you can’t go wrong with The Locust Years.

FCC: Clean
Try: 1, 2, 4, 7, 8

01. The Locust Years
02. We Are The Widows
03. Trot Out The Dead
04. Famine’s Lamp
05. Chastity Rides
06. War Anthem
07. Election Day (Instrumental)
08. Widow’s Wall
09. Church Of Broken Glass