I've had A Sense Of Purpose for nearly two months now, and have had the chance to spend a lot more time with it than many CDs I review. When I first heard this one, I was disappointed. But after many, many listens my opinion changed a bit. It's not one of their all time best efforts, but there are many things In Flames does very well.
The songs on A Sense Of Purpose are very melodic and accessible. The opening track and single "The Mirror's Truth" is very catchy, and there are several other potential singles. The arrangements are pretty standard, except for "The Chosen Pessimist," an 8 minute long ballad.
Anders Friden does a lot of melodic singing on this CD. There are also some death metal growls that add edge. A Sense Of Purpose is one of those CDs that will alienate some existing fans, but may also widen the band's fan base because of its accessibility. I think In Flames wrote some clever songs, but could have been more adventurous and pushed the boundaries a little more than they did here.
(released April 1, 2008 on Koch Records)
