March 25th will see the release of "Darkness Within" by French extreme metallers, CARNAGE OF CHILDREN.

One of the best things about this album is that it's fairly diverse in terms of sound. Right from the very start we get elements of Thrash, Death, Black, and other various means of portraying the genre that we have all come to love. Even the vocals have different approaches as the album goes on, definitely hitting both Death and Black Metal in the process.

I'm going to begin by going over a track named "Black Hole," which is a track that is atypical of the music presented on "Darkness Within". This one has a rap beat feel to it, particularly Horrorcore Rap, which is another genre that I feel can be good when done right. It also adds a snazzy dynamic, and makes the next track feel even heavier.

That next track is called "Punishment," which you will find a link to at the end of this review. I found that this one is the least blackened death sounding of any other song, which, once again, creates a dynamic that helps keep the album from becoming boring. The guitar leads are full of technical proficiency too, with some really awesome sweep runs that lend a tech-death vibe; add in some excellent symphonic elements and you get what I feel is their best song.

Another song I feel is superior is "Requiem for a Witch," as it adds a slight nű-metal influence on the band's repertoire. There is still that Blackened Death Metal sound, but there is so much more going on besides that. The outro piece is a nice touch and adds even more diversity and dynamics.

Going back to the beginning of the record we find "The Divine Right Hand," a song that is as brutal as it is short, clocking in at just over two minutes.

I feel that there's more of a black metal vibe flowing throughout, but as the song moves towards its end, we will also find death metal and more of the symphonic aspects that I find so appealing.

The last song I'd like to bring up is called "Endless Stairs," which is my pick for the second best piece of music on the record. There's enough heavy for fans of extreme metal, but enough differing influences to keep the less extreme fans entertained. This one also has the best vocal performances of any other song, they're just so fitting to the music, and the tone and approach is right up my alley.

"Darkness Within" is an incredible album, and that range of sounds makes all the difference to me. I enjoy when bands will try things to expand their chosen genre, like MORBID ANGEL did with their "Covenant" album, which may have been an influence on parts of what CARNAGE OF CHILDREN has done.

All of that being said, if you don't check out this album, you're crazy, as it's as good or better than anything else coming out on 3/25. So, follow the link, and "Punishment" will punish you with its power! Enjoy!!