About this album
Sound:
"A potent blend of heavy riffs and melodic hooks, capturing the essence of classic metal with modern intensity."
Where they were
Released on March 25, 2016, 'XI' marked Metal Church's first studio album in six years and their first with vocalist Mike Howe since 1993's 'Hanging in the Balance'. At this point in their career, the band was experiencing a resurgence, revitalizing their classic sound while introducing it to a new generation of metal fans.
Why it matters
'XI' received positive reviews from critics and fans alike, showcasing a successful return for Metal Church. The album debuted at number 15 on the Billboard Hard Rock chart, signifying a strong comeback in a genre that had evolved significantly since their earlier works.
Essential tracks
- "Reset" — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its explosive energy and catchy chorus, reestablishing the band's signature sound.
- "Killing Your Time" — This track combines intricate guitar work with powerful lyrics, reflecting themes of struggle and resilience that resonate throughout the album.
- "No Tomorrow" — 'No Tomorrow' showcases Howe's vocal range and lyrical depth, serving as a standout moment that captures the essence of personal reflection.
- "Soul Eating Machine" — With its driving rhythm and thought-provoking lyrics, this song exemplifies Metal Church's ability to blend heavy metal with meaningful commentary.
Release Date
March 25, 2016
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
Disc 1
- 1 Reset 3:53
- 2 Killing Your Time 5:07
- 3 No Tomorrow 5:09
- 4 Signal Path 7:12
- 5 Sky Falls In 7:01
- 6 Needle and Suture 4:39
- 7 Shadow 4:09
- 8 Blow Your Mind 6:29
- 9 Soul Eating Machine 4:41
- 10 It Waits 5:15
- 11 Suffer Fools 4:55
Disc 2
- 1 The Coward 4:13
- 2 Blister Fist 3:30
- 3 God Hit 4:04
- 4 The Enemy Mind 3:09
- 5 Signal Path (radio edit) 4:29
- 6 Badlands 8:12
- 7 Shadow (demo version) 4:22
- 8 No Tomorrow (alt mix) 4:45
