CoC's "Deliverance" was an incredible album that marked a very impressive step forward for metal. It gained a lot of class and dignity, and had a very clean sound. To top off their previous album were the inclusion of some guitar heavy instrumentals. Unfortunately "Wiseblood" is a major let down. Some of the songs sound like rip-offs of "Albatross" from their previous album. Others just lack the musical genious that CoC was beginning to show with their previous release. The song structure on "Wiseblood" is quite different. They have attempted some sort of shot at mixing progressive stylings with their form of metal. Although the mixture yields some very impressive metal, it is missing something essential; it's bland. After listening to the first couple of songs you may be thinking this album is going to be incredible. Pepper Keenan on guitars is always impressive, and his vocals help give the music some direction. The music is from slow to mid-speed, and emphasizes harmony and melody. Trying something different with the song structure introduces some elements of what alternative once meant, and adds in the flavour of progressive. However, after just those first few songs you may begin to get bored. Why? This album lacks the intensity and energy that helped define Corrosion Of Conformity. It sounds too laboured and perfected, there is very little in the form of musical expression. Also gone are the amazing guitar talents of Pepper Keenan. If you want to buy this album to hear the amazing Keenan, don't, he does nothing much as far as impressive guitar work is concerned. All in all this album is very similar to a flat bottle of pop, it still has all the flavour, but the fizz is gone.
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