SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: ACCEPT – HUMANOID

ACCEPT
HUMANOID
NAPALM RECORDS

Accept can be considered one of the most legendary German heavy metal bands to have formed in 1976. Since their inception, they have not only become one of the most successful German acts, but they have also made a significant impact on the global metal scene. With their innovative style, powerful vocals, and hard-hitting riffs, Accept has paved the way for many other bands in the heavy metal genre. Their music has inspired countless artists and has been instrumental in shaping the industry. Over the years, they have released numerous critically acclaimed albums, including “Balls To The Wall”, “Metal Heart”, and “Restless And Wild”. Their music is characterized by its intensity, aggression, and raw energy, making them one of the most influential bands of their time. With 17 albums under their belt, Accept stands on the shoulders of their new release, Humanoid.

After the success of 2021’s Too Mean To Die, Humanoid breathes a different yet very traditional kind of energy that displays that with age comes grace. Committed to their agitated and energetic three-pronged guitar soundscape since the return of frontman Mark Tornillo, the crew have once again found themselves in a state of renewed agency, one that feels like a late rebirth and one of new and fiery confidence. Accept looks to new horizons with their new release, aware of who they are and what they want their music to become moving forward.

Continuing to embrace their core metal soundscapes yet embracing some melodic and hard-rock passages, Accept’s overall simple, no-frills approach continues to be the bread and butter of what makes Humanoid and their sound such an attractive and nuanced listen.

Founding guitarist Wolf Hoffman continues to show his untapped potential to find creative brilliance in the most interesting of places within his classical roots, transforming such inspiration into something pulverulent and melodically abstract, a concept that has continued to evolve within their career of 48 years.

The opening track of the album, “Diving Into Sin”, effortlessly draws the listener in with its evocative and nostalgic allure, reminiscent of those moments of returning to a familiar place after a long absence.  Featuring a combination of gritty and abrasive guitar riffs, interwoven with Hoffman’s dissonant melodic cadence, this dynamic interplay creates a multi-dimensional soundscape that shimmers with brilliance and intensity, setting the stage for other fascinating moments that can be expected throughout the rest of the album. Overall, “Diving Into Sin” is an excellent introduction to the album, showcasing Accept’s musical prowess and their ability to create a captivating listening experience.

The album continues to take the listener on a thrilling journey. From the title track and gradually building up to more polished and technically impressive tracks such as “Frankenstein” and “The Reckoning”. Accept’s use of forceful dissonance adds a distinctive edge to the album, propelling it forward into more punchy and sinewy numbers like “Nobody Gets Out Alive”, creating an experience that is a rich and captivating one, brimming with magnetic charm and the raw power of the 80s.

Other junctures such as mood-driven ballads, “Ravages of Time” show a softer and more passionate side to Accept’s raw and intense wall of sound up to this point, giving a bit of respite from all of the antagonistic energies while also giving listeners some new ear candy to digest before moving into other dynamically compelling experiences on the record such as “Mind Games” and best and final track on the album “Southside of Hell.”

Humanoid showcases a stunning collection of tracks, each with its unique nuanced charm and style. However, the final track, “Southside of Hell” stands out as one of the most compelling experiences on the album. Flashy and intense, “Southside To Hell” leaves a lasting effect on the listener, featuring precision and melodicism that are nothing short of impressive, razor-sharp guitar riffs, and glossy production adding to its allure.

Despite the band’s long and detailed history, there is no hint of complacency in this album. The trio of Hoffman, Uwe Lulis, and Philip Shouse continues to enthrall the listeners with their smooth and enthusiastic leads and harmonies, blending the best of both classical and metal worlds into each experience. Unapologetically nostalgic, the band sticks true to what has worked for them in the past yet is refreshing and modern at the same time. Amidst its powerful and heavy atmosphere, Accept broadcasts some softer, more melodic opportunities that allow the listener to catch their breath and appreciate the stunning musicianship on display.

Humanoid is an album that showcases the German metal legends’ commitment to preserving the rich history of their music. The record is a testament to the band’s meticulous attention to sound, seamlessly blending their trademark edgy and corrosive style with a hint of classical opulence. With its powerful impact, Humanoid stands out as one of their most cohesive works yet. The album is a triumphant addition to the band’s storied career, proving that they still possess the talent and creativity to craft a brilliant record.

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