Cold Snap – “World War 3” [Album Review]

Unpredictability is the name of the game here on World War 3, the third full-length release from Croatian metal act, Cold Snap. This is a record that definitely keeps listeners on their toes, switching up sounds between down-tuned, balls-to-the-wall metal in the vein of Suicide Silence, and the nu-metal stylings of bands like Korn and Slipknot.

I think Cold Snap are at their best on the heavier, more metallic tunes like disc opener, “Straight To Hell,” or “Rise Again” and “Silent Killer.” If the whole album were comprised of these kinds of tunes, I would be sold hook, line and sinker. Unfortunately that is not the case, moreover I was never a big fan of the nu-metal scene, so a good portion of the album is somewhat lost on me.

That being said, vocalist Jan Kerekeš has one of the more unique voices I have heard in a long time. He is so erratic and incredibly entertaining with performances ranging from a full on guttural growl to an evil maniacal madman, and everywhere in between. World War 3 is an album full-of surprises, and stellar vocals, that guarantee you won’t get easily bored.

I know a good majority of listeners download their music these days, but the artwork on World War 3 is fantastic, which I feel makes it well worth picking up a hard copy. At the end of the day I think fans of the nu-metal genre will eat this one up, but for me, World War 3 is a mixed bag; while I totally dig the heaviness, I just can’t get with or connect with the nu-metal leanings that round out the rest of the disc.

Track Listing:

01. Straight To Hell
02. Carnival
03. Rise Again
04. Unleash Me
05. Monster
06. Dead Guardian
07. Doomsday
08. Freedom
09. Silent Killer
10. Court Is Corrupted
11. Chameleon
12. My Emptiness

Run Time: 44:58
Release Date: January 13, 2015

Check out the song “Silent Killer”