CREEP formed in 2007 and promptly released their debut, self-titled EP which combined powerful arrangements with a keen ear for melody. They developed their modern take on metal on their debut LP "Beasts In The Portrait," which combined more Metalcore sounds but retained a strong sense of melody. This, their long gestating follow-up, is their first recorded material with lead singer Raffele Pilotti.

"Innerland" manages to combine all of their strengths. Opener "Evil Resides" is a caustic opener with coarse, untempered vocals from Pilotti. It is an unrelenting and intense beginning with some really impressive drum work and some thumping riffage. In many respects, it is reminiscent of MACHINE HEAD'S early 90s work. It soon becomes clear that many of the band's touchstones are the heavy bands that made their names in the early to mid-90s. "Time Frame" possesses the intense energy and musicality of L.A. veterans SUICIDAL TENDENCIES. The band is certainly no mere copyists, however. "The Ire Of Fire" and "Redemption" bring their old hardcore stylings bang up to date with more melodic, Metalcore choruses.

There are some superb riffs on the album and when they hit they hit hard. "Forsaken" and album highlight "Self-Destruction and Stepping Stones" are a nihilistic brutal demonstration of the band's musicianship with the band cleverly allowing for space between riffs and chords. It displays a nuanced understanding of thrash/metal dynamics. It is a further example of how the band have grown since their debut EP. Single "A Lonely Star" is a perfect summation of the band. It's a powerful Metalcore beast with a fist-pumping, anthemic chorus. Not all of the songs reach the same high standard. "Out Of Darkness" and "Red" are good but unfortunately eclipsed by what has preceded them. In addition the customary ballad "Forsaken" adds very little to the album save for a pause for breath.

Singer Pilotti is an excellent addition to the band. He has a real understanding of the requirements of the song and is clearly blessed with a decent range. That said, some of the choruses lack catchy enough hooks and are a little forgettable. Likewise, there is a tendency for the band to rely on the customary Metalcore breakdown. A little more variety in song structure would have been nice. On the whole, this is a solid album for those who like their old school metal sounds but like them with a modern twist. The band has demonstrated admirable growth and are clearly more than capable of breaking through from the underground.