"Lust and Loathing" are states of mind that at best, lead to distraction; at worst, lead to damage. The Unguided album, "Lust and Loathing", is not quite distracting or destructive, but It's a well-produced, enjoyable album with great energy on the best of its tracks. If you like Swedish Melodic Death Metal, a la In Flames and Scar Symmetry - - especially Scar Symmetry - holy shit do The Unguided remind me of them. If this is your thing consider adding the album to your collection. Although I like and recommend it, I do have to confess some problems with “Lust and Loathing” (yeah, yeah).

The Unguided have released three EPs, and including this, three full-lengths, since their beginning in 2011. With six releases to their name, it isn't really accurate then, to dismiss their missteps as the immaturity of a developing young band. Throughout L&L, the tunes feature fast drum, guitars, and synths beneath alternating clean and death metal vocals, but the base chords at the heart of each song could fit into just about any pop album. The structures are very safe and familiar, like Amy Lee songs, just not as pretty or catchy or commercial. Track 4, ‘Heartseeker’, starts off as a near Euro-pop number before offering the album's first legitimately heavy section in the bridge. This is actually one of the better songs on "Lust and Loathing", along with the breakneck ‘The Worst Day (Revisited)’.

So, indulge, enjoy - - just keep your expectations in check.