Elementary gets off to a heavy start with "Dangerous," a song that makes me bang my head and pump my fist. The heavy riffing and crushing drums must make this an insane live track. Track two, "The Never Ever Aftermath," introduces a slightly less heavy, yet doomier atmosphere. We also get a cleaner, screamo style of vocal growling from Aaron Wolff. It is a style that permeates this album — but in a good way.

Epic is a good way to describe the album as a whole. The music provides the expansive feel, while the vocals deliver a more heartfelt and personal side. It is definitely intriguing. The twin guitar interplay, backed with sporadically excellent drumming, and a bass sound that reminds me a bit of when I saw Mudvayne live (not the studio recorded version) — all of these elements build to a wall of sound that proves absolutely massive. Meanwhile, the vocals draw you in for a more personal experience.

Through all of the aggression and power shown, there is still another side that you would probably not expect from a band such as this. The final track, "And Always...," is an acoustic driven song which borders on a power ballad. It is a vastly different experience from all that had come before. I can honestly say that I was caught offguard by the quiet acoustic guitar and piano keys accompanying the soft vocals. It is a sprawling nine minute song which builds dramatic tension and gloom. It is also an eerily beautiful, and different way to end a metal album.

Bottomline: This is a good album. Though perhaps not as envelope pushing as similar bands, The End still stand apart with this solid genre mashing release. If you are looking for a solid, heavy, and will structured album, Elementary is going to be well worth your time. The End has a strong future ahead of them.

Recommended.