Cursed Album CoverRighteous Vendetta, a five-piece metal band out of Wyoming, definitely has a sound that is uniquely theirs. They have this incredible way of blending some powerful guttural growls next to well-sung vocals. Then, they throw all of that on top of some grinding yet oftentimes-smooth instrumentals. This production style really takes the formula and turns it on its head. None of that is more apparent to fans then on their latest release, Cursed.
Cursed is one of those albums that you throw in the player and let it play from beginning to end. Occasionally, you may find yourself throwing up some rock horns while you go about listening, endlessly bopping your head. This album is full of catchy lyrics, which is not something that is usually reported on albums of this vein. It’s an enjoyable ride from start to finish from the guys in Righteous Vendetta.
Vocalist Ryan Hayes completely owns on this album, and drummer Zack Goggins more than earns his stripes as he drives the band forward from one song to the next. On guitars, the Justins (Olmstead and Smith) are damn-near spotless on each track. On bass, Riley Haynie is simply the man. Clean instrumentals are definitely prominent on this album. They provide the perfect backdrop for Hayes and his vocals to shine through. As far as I am concerned, the true winner on this album would be the voice of Hayes.
Right from the start, Cursed grips the ears with “War is Killing Us All.” This gritty, growly track really showcases the power behind the band. And when it ends, the listener gets dropped into the deep end with the title track, “Cursed.” These two tracks pair together nicely to immerse the listener into the message that Righteous Vendetta wants to impart. After a four years of not releasing a new album, they are back and better than ever!
The layout of the album is clearly well-controlled, going into the heavier “Daemons” to “Psycho.” “Daemons” is a standout track, and it really slammed me up against the wall. I felt the anger and power from the opening chords. “Psycho” is another one that leaves the listener completely helpless to do anything but listen to every word, nod her head, and want to completely lose her shit in the mosh pit.
“Burn” is another track that is super catchy while being forceful and driving. The lyrics are also clearly emotionally driven. The final track, “Strangers,” is the absolute perfect way to end the album. It starts out soft, but then – in true Righteous Vendetta style – blends some beautiful lyrics that anchor the track. “You will always be the one I will run to out of the darkness,” is one of the most stunning lyrics on the album, and one that lays the emotions of Righteous Vendetta bare.
It’s hard to pick a favorite track on Cursed, but that’s a good thing. This album shows us all that Righteous Vendetta is more than ready to start kicking ass and taking names. Cursed is definitely an album you don’t want to pass up, and if you’re a longtime fan of the band, I think you’ll be impressed with their return to a heavier sound, while still blending in some softer elements, that they have been known for. I give this four out of five skulls.
Review by Devon Anderson, RockRevolt Managing Editor
