Five Finger Death Punch are one of the most polarizing bands- not just in all of metal- but in all of music. You either love them or hate them, but you can’t deny the impact they’ve made on the world of heavy metal over the decades.
Over the last few records, the band started experimenting with new sounds and elements- even collaborating with the late DMX and their latest record- Legacy continues that trend but also stays true to the FFDP sounds that put them on the map.
The title track kicks things off in true FFDP fashion with a track that keeps the signature Death Punch sound but adds one of the coolest guitar riffs of the band’s career and it’s one hell of statement for an opener while “De Oppresso Liber” keeps that spirit going.
“Nails In the Coffin” opens up with a cinematic and theatrical vibe that features a hauntingly taunting vocal delivery from Ivan Moody before it rips into one hell of a metal track.
“Unscathed” and “Scapegoat” are pure Death Punch adrenaline rushes that will find a way to keep you on the edge of your seat while “Jokes On Me” is one of the most fun songs on the album and has one of the catchiest bridges and choruses on the record.
“Everybody Lies” is the standout by far. Much like “A Little Bit Off’ from a few years back, this one’s so far out of left field and different from what we’ve gotten used to from the band, that it’s impossible not to get addicted to. Between the acoustic guitars, anthem of a chorus, children’s choir backup vocals and a message that’s brutally honest, you can’t not fall in love with this one.
In the end, Five Finger Death Punch have continued to silence their critics. For a few years, there was a stigma that their songs all sounded the same and that they had had their day in the sun. With Legacy, they put that mindset to bed and bury it deep underground.
If they called it quits today, Legacy would be the record that defines their career and for many good reasons. Legacy shows the band balancing the signature Death Punch sound with introducing new horizons and it’s one hell of a fun record to listen to.
Rating: 9.5/10
-Reggie Edwards