For a big Chimaira fan, it’s no doubt just about all they could want, but I can’t think there’s too many of those – Chimaira are near the front of the ‘New Wave Of American Heavy Metal’ but have hardly set the world alight. Their commentary is refreshingly honest on the fact that their first record was a disappointment, and The Impossibility Of Reason was made under a lot of pressure to sell more (without selling out, of course).

Unfortunately it then degenerates into clichés like “it’s all about the music, not sales”. The band are pretty frank about the trials and tribulations of touring too, and splits within their ranks, but if you don’t know they’re history it’s rather hard to follow what’s going on.

The live show reveals a similarly unoriginal approach. Everything Mark Hunter says to the audience is punctuated with f-words (no doubt what earned the release a 15 certificate). They certainly have enough decent material for an impressive live set, but the delivery is rather plain, although it is probably the first time I’ve seen a turntablist really headbang.

Much the same can be said for the uninspired videos (previously available on the Roadrage DVDs) and the bonus EP which, predictably, is rather raw in comparison to the band’s later efforts. So, in sum, the band’s small but loyal core of existing fans will no doubt love all they’ve got here, but not many new fans are likely to be won over.

(3/5)

Release Date: 25 October 2004

---

The Dehumanizing Process