Only Inhuman

Sonic Syndicate

The most inappropriate person for this band/album would be me, worldwide. On the other hand, […]
By Grigoris Chronis
June 8, 2007
Sonic Syndicate - Only Inhuman album cover

The most inappropriate person for this band/album would be me, worldwide. On the other hand, people who do not have certain styles as their own 'cup of tea' can - at times - be more objective reviewers, but only if they succeed in throwing away their  'fan' as long as the audition(s) and subsequent review last. Still, in the case of SONIC SYNDICATE things to be less of a hard task since the term 'predictable as hell' did - eventually - save time and effort.
SONIC SYNDICATE - hailing from Falkenberg, Sweden - had already released a full-length CD entitled Eden Fire via the Pivotal Rockordings label, when they ran for a Nuclear Blast contest to win inking the deal. I can recall some really good reviews for the Swedish (featuring three members of the Sjunnesson family) sextet's debut; the album tracks' titles well relatively overwhelming, too! Still, now jumping on to a more luxurious 'wagon', the band were ready for the next 'big thing' and worked really hard for it. Recordings took place in Black Lounge Studios in Avesta, with producer Jonas Kjellgren (SCAR SYMMETRY) behind the console. From November 20th, 2006 it's been a really long time since May 2007 - the month Only Inhuman was officially released.
The album is full of Metal blends; and non-Metal ones. The influence of IN FLAMES is so close; you'll get blinded at times. The band also occupies itself with lots of Metalcore (aka SHADOWS FALL and the rest of the genre) stuff; yet, enough of neo-Goth-meets-Po(m)p harmonies will you also come across, in the H.I.M., LACUNA COIL or SOUL RELIC 'path'. And, as a desert, grab a little of the SOILWORK drama, to complete the 'setup'. Brutal vocals and clean vocals are in alike quantity, the 'female member included' status adds enough of spark, the musicians' young ages seem more than promising, the keyboards atmosphere is tempting, the production is ideal and...not to forget...SONIC SYMPHONY features notable musicianship, to tell the truth.
In conclusion, what? Only Inhuman will be adored by those listening to (in general) Metal music the last 4-5 years. Critically acclaimed for teenagers who believe TRIVIUM are a non-influenced-but-inspiring band and LACUNA COIL do play Gothic Metal, Only Inhuman will score gross sales. Isn't this fact the reason for the band to be picked in the first place? Ah, if your age ranks from 25 to 30 years old, give the album a try before you purchase. As for the older ones, limited is the chance you'd find some interest in SONIC SYNDICATE, especially if you believe that e.g. IN FLAMESS's music applies more to your 10-year-old nephew's cultural needs.

6 / 10

Had Potential

"Only Inhuman" Track-listing:

Aftermath
Blue Eyed Fiend
Psychic Suicide
Double Agent 616
Enclave
Denied
Callous
Only Inhuman
All About Us
Unknown Entity
Flashback

Sonic Syndicate Lineup:

Richard Sjunnesson - Vocals
Roland Johasson - Vocals
Roger Sjunnesson - Lead Guitar
Robin Sjunnesson - Guitar
Karin Axlesson - Bass
John Runken Bengtsson - Drums

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