Originally founded by Ice-T and Ernie C. as an outlet for to interest in Metal music, BODY COUNT became much more than just another talent rich band on the scene. In fact, one song, "Cop Killer" gained more attention than the entire project itself.. The controversy surrounding the song ultimately resulted in Ice-T pulling the song from the album, despite the record company's support. The song and attention overshadowed the band, and could have ruined other bands with less testicular fortitude. Instead, Ice-T knew when to cut this particular loss, and keep on keeping on for the greater good.

With the release of "Carnivore", BODY COUNT has released their seventh album, and an epic one at that. Coming at you intensely with 10 new songs and running 36 minutes, BODY COUNT prove they're still on the top of their game, bringing their Urban Speed Metal upside your head, with a plethora of topics you'd expect. Police corruption in "Point The Finger" ('Your fucking badge is the biggest gang") which also features Riley Gale of POWERTRIP. There's respect for the pioneers with a bombastically fun cover of MOTORHEAD's "ACE OF SPADES", and a timely remake of Ice-T's movie soundtrack classic, "Colors" for 2020.

In addition to Riley Gale, there two more collaborations present on "Carnivore", HATEBREED's Jamey Jasta is featured on the pulse elevating "Another Level", which is a highlight track for sure. But the real standout, and one I never saw coming was the brilliant inclusion of EVANESCENCE's Amy Lee on "When I'm Gone", a stunningly poignant tribute to those fallen friends and family members. The contrast of vocals is incredibly powerful, and convinced me that nearly anything Amy Lee touches is special. Through it all, Ernie C. and Juan of the Dead crush crunchy Thrash riffs that lend a added aggression to tracks that lyrically already boil over with pugnacity. When Ice-T sings 'Fuck you, I won't apologize' in "No Remorse", there's zero reason to doubt him. It's a given, and the band has definitely got his back.

BODY COUNT and Century Media Records have unleashed a real monster with "Carnivore". This is a no holds barred, in your face beatdown (represented by track #9, "Thee Critical Beatdown") that builds character if you let it. It's a solid contender for year-end lists, though I really wish it was longer in length. The 36 minute running time breezes by exceedingly fast, but it's really fun while it lasts. BODY COUNT was preparing for a tour supporting "Carnivore", that regrettably looks to be shelved for the time being due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That's a real shame. I can't tell you how much I was looking forward to catching the tour. Here's to hoping that a tour still sees the light of day. Until that day, I really recommend picking up a copy for your self.