LAMB OF GOD Reclaims Their Throne with 'Into Oblivion'

In a recent interview with U.K.'s Gear4music, LAMB OF GOD's axeman Mark Morton peeled back the layers on the band's latest sonic offering, 'Into Oblivion,' their tenth studio album that detonated in March under the banners of Epic in the U.S. and Century Media across Europe. When quizzed about the evolution of the band's sound on this LP, Morton emphasized the deliberate nature of their musical journey. "Everything we do is very intentional. There's not a lot of accidents," he declared. The guitarist explained that the creative process is a multi-stage endeavor where riffs are birthed, developed, and meticulously crafted into the final product.

Morton elaborated on the band's commitment to stepping outside their comfort zones, both compositionally and creatively. "I went back and started listening to the things that inspired me during the writing of our earlier albums," he admitted. The resurgence of early 2000s metal in his rotation reignited sparks of inspiration that found their way into 'Into Oblivion.' This rekindling of past influences is a testament to the band's relentless drive to evolve while staying true to their roots.

At the core of LAMB OF GOD's songwriting is the riff, as Morton emphasized that the genesis of each track begins with guitar work. "Willie [Adler] and I are always writing, collecting riffs on our own, and then we come together to compare notes," he stated. This foundational approach has been the lifeblood of their creative process from day one, ensuring that their music remains raw and authentic.

When the topic turned to his favorite LAMB OF GOD album, Morton didn’t hesitate to name 'As The Palaces Burn' as his top pick. "There’s something really unique about that record. It’s the sound of the band just getting its legs under ourselves as songwriters," he reflected. Despite its rough edges, Morton praised its fiery essence, likening its sound to the vibrant colors on its cover, a true representation of the band's early spirit.

Earlier this year on The Downbeat Podcast, Morton discussed the conscious decision to recapture elements of their foundational sound on 'Into Oblivion.' He noted that while the band thrives on collaboration without formal meetings to set their direction, they were all aware that they wanted to revisit the cornerstones of their music. This introspective approach was further fueled by the 'Ashes Of The Wake' 20-year anniversary tour, where Morton revisited the band's older tracks and rekindled the creative flames of their past.