Lifted by years of effort and a new distribution deal with , ' broke onto the charts with 2004's , which set up the band's next release as a potential breakthrough. When a recording artist with a number of albums decides to name a new disc after itself, that's often a signal of an attempt at reinvention or introduction to a new audience, and such seems to be the case with . The album is not a break with the past, but it does mark a more complete realization of the band's goal of maintaining a distinct / identity while suggesting it can master other styles as well. The most distinct example of this versatility comes six tracks in with a song on which abruptly switches gears and produces a melodic, midtempo performance. Lead singer calms down from his usual harsh howl to a conventional vocal style, and the band turns in a surprisingly accessible track, complete with a big, hooky chorus. The first time listening to the album, comes as a surprise, but upon repeated listenings it's possible to hear more sophisticated parts in other songs -- unusually strong vocal choruses, keyboard riffs, unusual tempo shifts. can play contemporary with the best of them, turning out songs filled with pile-driving drum parts, thundering guitars, and 's obscenity laced, rage-filled screaming. But, unlike their many competitors, they are more than that, and they vary the formula just enough to emerge from the pack. ~ William Ruhlmann