Arch Enemy - 'The Root Of All Evil'

It was inevitable that Arch Enemy would eventually re-record some of their pre-Angela Gossow material. Since she has joined the band, their profile has been consistently rising, and some younger fans may not even be aware the band ever had a different vocalist. It makes commercial sense to reimagine some of that early material with modern production and Gossow’s distinctive vocals.

The Root Of All Evil collects songs from the first three Arch Enemy albums: 1996’s Black Earth, 1998’s Stigmata and 1999’s Burning Bridges. Their third album has the most songs on The Root Of All Evil, such as “Silverwing” and “The Immortal.”

Musically the songs are pretty faithful renditions of the originals, but sound much crisper and polished. The band has also had more than a decade to improve their musicianship, which is reflected on the tight arrangements and flawless execution. But what gives the songs on The Root Of All Evil new life is Gossow’s vocals. Her dynamic growls propel songs like “Beast Of Man” with a different vibe than original vocalist Johan Liiva.

In between proper studio albums, it’s not uncommon for bands to issue compilations, live albums or covers collections. There have been other bands that have re-recorded earlier material, sometimes for reasons that are unclear, but there is a definite market for an album like The Root Of All Evil. And for those who prefer Liiva’s vocals, the original albums are still available!

(released October 6, 2009 on Century Media Records)