Johan Liiva's departure from Arch Enemy created a big void and led to an innevitable split in the fanbase. I won't speak for others but the Angela Gossow follow-ups just never impressed me enough, I felt her debut with the band and the sophomore sounded very generic. All this was about to change for me when I heard Doomsday Machine, which I approached with curiosity but with a lower level of enthusiasm expecting more generic sounding gothenburg metal.

I am pleased to report Doomsday Machine evokes the melodic and brutal elements which made Stigmata a gothenburg gem.

The riffs and solos on Doomsday Machine are some of the most melodic and intricate I've heard from Michael Ammott in years and while gothenburg is the focus of attention the guitarwork spans to other eras both thrash and traditional metal, dare I say I hear some Megadeth influences in the soloing and riffing at times. The guitarwork is given its exclusive spot on "Hybrids of Steel" - a Jeff Beck meets an atmospheric Satriani round "Flying in Blue Dream" jam instrumental.

The songwriting and chemistry feels at an all time high, not experienced since their formative days. Some of the most definitive cuts include "Taking Back My Soul" with its full-force drumming and guitar attack, "Nemesis" with an almost Manowar meets Overkill style chorus, infact a good nod to NWOBHM; the rip tear of I Am Legend/Out For Blood is a great sing-along, Angela's vocals having the perfect vibe throughout.

Credit must also be given to Andy Sneap for his sleek production, driving this album to perfection.

The band finally feels comfortable with eachother and has discovered both its potentials and learnt of its past limitations.