by Alex Henderson

All too often, bands that have shown as much promise as Sevendust did on its self-titled debut album (which went gold) have fallen prey to the dreaded sophomore curse and failed to make good on that promise. But there are no signs of a sophomore slump on Sevendust's second album, Home, which like its predecessor, is as melodic as it is angry and brutally heavy. Melody isn't simply an afterthought on this CD -- it's an integral part of the band's sound, and it complements the intensity and forcefulness of songs like "Denial," "Feel So," and "Crumpled." Many of the influences heard on Sevendust are also heard on Home -- the Atlantans still show an appreciation of artists ranging from Living Colour and Nirvana to Anthrax, Metallica, and Faith No More. But Sevendust is quite recognizable itself, and it had become a major player in the alternative metal world of the late '90s. Those who savored Sevendust's first album won't find Home to be the least bit disappointing.