Band:	Soilwork
Album:	A Predator's Portrait
Style:	Gothenburg metal
Release date:	2001
Guest review by:	Bethany

01. Bastard Chain
02. Like An Average Stalker
03. Needlefeast
04. Neurotica Rampage
05. The Analyst
06. Grand Failure Anthem
07. Structure Divine
08. Shadowchild
09. Final Fatal Force
10. A Predator's Portrait
11. Asylum Dance [Japanese and Korean bonus]

Soilwork's third album is a true blessing for any fan of death metal. This album races along without a single low point - it is undoubtedly their best work to date (though "Natural Born Chaos" is about to be released). Every song contains the perfect blend of melodic/death vocals, drumming, bass lines, and guitar riffs that are godly enough to make your hair stand on end. Besides, the whole album is ridiculously catchy. The first track, "Bastard's Chain", lets you know right away what you're in for - a relished kick in the face. The sound is so fit together - you won't believe what you're listening to! Guitarists Peter Wichers and Ola Frenning seem to have crafted their artistry as close to perfection as possible. Ola Flink's bass lines add to the band's heavy kick. Choosing a favorite song is tough, but I think the second track - "Like The Average Stalker", is the album's high point. The melodies on the song are somewhat chilling and the double-bass is accommodated exactly where it should be. Other "extra" highs, being that the whole album is incredible, may include "The Analyst", "Needlefeast", "Grand Failure Anthem", and especially "Shadowchild."

Bottom line - this is definitely worth your $15. If you like death metal, you are only hurting yourself if you do not own this album. What else would you expect from Sweden?