Shallow Life opens with Survive. As a song, again, i have to respect that it achieve in becoming what it probably was intended to be- a rocky track reminiscent of the bands prior release- the aforementioned Karmacode. Not a terrible start, but nothing to surprise or shock what had been expected from this release. What does stand out, for me, is the chanting that occurs part-way through the song. A subtle addition that adds a depth to the track, and makes the composition considerably more interesting.
I Won't Tell You runs a more melodic route- and Cristina Scabbia's vocals especially shine for the first time- complimenting Andrea's. It seems to take new steps for Lacuna Coil- not back into their atmospheric beginnings as many would hope, but treading new ground in the rock scene. A catchy track, and without doubt a great addition to the bands back catalogue of creations.
Scabbia takes prominence over Andrea for the first time- soaring in the chorus and bridge of Not Enough, the first highlight of Shallow Life. A blistering chorus that is only perfected by Cristina's powerful tones sees the band producing not just another great creation, but a potential hit single.
The album pushes forward, once more with Cristina taking center stage for I'm Not Afraid. The middle-eastern vibes return from Karmacode, with Scabbia's serene calls. Sadly, the song, for me, has nothing special and remains one of the most uninspired tracks on the album. Far from being terrible, or even bad, just predictable.
Mainstream rock takes audio form in the next track- I Like It. Despite a somewhat cheesy refrain from the lead-lady, the song has a catchy chorus and w
ould fare well as a single, indefinitely. As a track, I Like It stands out from the other songs on offer- but whether that is a good thing or not remains for each listener to decide.A darker sound, accompanied by Linkin Park styled electronics See's Underdog take Shallow Life in a new direction. Surprisingly, Andrea sounds particularly suited to this style, and with Cristina's backing, the vocals only make the track better. Another highlight, and a great return to form from the band.
The second half of Shallow Life proves to be the standout segment, as The Pain steps on more unknown territory. Industrial elements and alluring synths thrive for a more mellow sound- successfully topped off with Cristina's dulcet tones. Despite feeling that this song may have benefited more from a solo performance from Cristina, the track remains a favourite and a positive hint back to Comalies-styled material. Passionate and beautiful.
Spellbound fell under intense criticism from some Lacuna Coil fans for being too predictable, whilst it was hailed in equal measure from other audiences. Personally, the song acts perfectly as lead single. Presenting a sense of the album, as it does, and grabbing the listeners attention with a catchy and distinct chorus, another thing it succeeds in doing. Evidently an opinion divider, the track, admittedly, may be considerably akin to their Karmacode material, but certainly excels it, in my opinion, with it's excellent musicianship.
The albums first true ballad comes in the form of Wide Awake. Lead by a beautiful piano refrain. Without a doubt, one of the best tracks Lacuna Coil have put their name to. Trying something new seems to be the theme of Shallow Life, as this song sees them like never before and at emotional extremes. Cristina rightfully leads the stunning epic and the chorus is simply to die for. Exceptionally beautiful and an awaited success from the band.
Andrea returns and once again finds his perfect grounding on the verses of The Maze. The chorus may be a little underwhelming, but the verses and Cristina herself save it from failure. A good track, could certainly be better, but a good track nonetheless.
The penultimate track on this release, Unchained, is another potential single. Embedding itself and it's vocal lines into your subconscious, the track leads perfectly to a close by bringing together all that Shallow Life has promoted- amazing vocals, catchy refrains and excellent musicianship.
Shallow Life ends with it's title track. Taking the brave decision to end with another mellow, industrial heavy composition that sees the band evolve from the monotony of Karmacode, contrasting it with the utter experimentation of Shallow Life.
Without a doubt, nothing i expected or desired from Lacuna Coil returned on Shallow Life. However, the bands evolution and progression has produced a record that i enjoyed and embraced not as a disappointed Lacuna Coil fan, but as a fan that has accepted their growth and thankfully found the beauty in it.
8/10
