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FLOTSAM AND JETSAM
I Am The Weapon
2024 AFM Records

FLOTSAM AND JETSAM will release their 15th studio album, I Am The Weapon on September 13th. F&J has been on a roll since 2016's self titled album, (to me a sort of rebirth of the band) that has seen them producing arguably the best material in their career, despite a few lineup changes during that time. F&J now has a consistent lineup (since 2021's Blood In The Water) with Eric A.K. (vocals), Michael Gilbert (guitar), Steve Conley (guitar), Bill Bodily (bass) and Ken Mary (drums).

I Am The Weapon sees the entire band contributing to the songwriting, and there are some really diverse songs and huge choruses to be found here, such as the hammering opener "A New Kind of Hero". Here's a track that is just relentless, and features some of the most precision musicianship and impressive vocals you'll hear this year. Early single release "Primal" (video on KNAC.COM HERE) features lyrics about frustration that I can genuinely relate to. The melody on this track and the anxiety within will seep their way into your mind. Title track "I Am The Weapon" serves as a warning, and is precision speed/thrash that takes no prisoners. "Burned My Bridges" seems introspective, and from a point of regret. "The Head of The Snake" could be read as a political statement, and is surely one of the more acerbic vocals from Eric. "Beneath The Shadows" I believe to be one of the strongest songs on the album, and another potential single release. "Gates of Hell" is another favorite for me, as the aggression and bite of this song is like a punch in the face. "Cold Steel Lights" is a frenetic, high-stress test, while "Kings of The Underworld" is straightforward musically yet allows Eric A.K. room to shine with vocal acrobatics. "Running Through The Fire" is a great deep cut. The album closes with the atmospheric "Black Wings", possibly the most epic track to be found on I Am The Weapon.

Honestly, I Am The Weapon was a blind buy for me. The moment they announced this album, I pre-ordered it. That's how persistently good F&J have been, and how much I love the band. And I wasn't disappointed. Here's hoping they go back out on tour again, (Florida, please!). I can't say enough good things about this album. From the opening note, I Am The Weapon is a blast to the face that's sure to rattle your teeth and give you a reason to get off your ass. There's also great artwork by collaborator Andy Pilkington, once again featuring Flotzilla. 11 songs and 47 minutes of fun. Enough accolades, buy this album! Flotz 'til death!

5.0 Out Of 5.0