[2.5/5]
Ever since making the leap from Lifeforce to Century Media (in North America) and Roadrunner (rest of the world) three years ago, Germany's Caliban arguably have phoned in their last two releases and definitely failed to remain ahead of the metallic hardcore pack. What was once a mighty Euro-metalcore institution able to kill cranial matter at 50 paces, Caliban have lost their edge and slumped into the background. The Awakening, while not the album destined to bring everyone to the pit for a collective jaw shattering, does see the quintet using classic thrash riffs ("Let Go" = Slayer, "Stop Running" = Testament) and immensely improving upon their melodic sensibilities ("Give Me a Reason"). Even though their songwriting is as predictable as a horror flick plot and you are guaranteed at least two ill-placed breakdowns per tune, there are an encouraging number of headbangable moments. (CENTURY MEDIA; centurymedia.com) Kevin Stewart-Panko
 Official Website: http://www.centurymedia.com
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