Within Temptation - "Hydra"

Within Temptation - Hydra
2014, Nuclear Blast

1. Let Us Burn
2. Dangerous
3. And We Run
4. Paradise (What About Us?)
5. Edge of the World
6. Silver Moonlight
7. Covered By Roses
8. Dog Days
9. Tell Me Why
10. The Whole World Is Watching

I picked up Within Temptation's newest album at Walmart. I can only assume this means longtime fans think that Hydra is a "sell out" album. It's certainly got the makings of a sell out. It's got several guest vocalists like Howard Jones (from Killswitch Engage) and Tajra (ex-Nightwish). It also has Dave Pirner from Soul Asylum. You mean "Runaway Train" missing kids video Soul Asylum? The very same. It also has... Xzibit. Yes... Pimp My Ride Xzibit. I have no idea how that happened but it happened and it's here on this CD. Despite all the guest appearances I'll say this: if this is a sell out it's a dang good one. The songs are tight, heavy, bombastic and radio friendly. I especially like "Paradise (What About Us?)." It's such a monster tune and the addition of Tajra on vocals just makes it that much more epic. Also, Xzibit, while still sounding out of place, still does a decent job. He doesn't completely ruin the song - quite the opposite the combination of symphonic metal and rap... ain't half bad. I know, it surprised me too. If you're looking to dip your toes in the symphonic metal pool, Hydra isn't a bad place to start.

Useless Fact: This album came with a two-disc digipak edition. The second disc featured covers of "Radioactive" and "Summertime Sadness." Also, vocalist Sharon del Adel performed on Ayreon's 01 album.