Those who are familiar with the whole "metalcore" scene will more than likely enjoy the sounds of Killswitch Engage. Their fourth (second with vocalist Howard Jones) studio album, As Daylight Dies was released in November, 2006 and then re-released in August, 2007. They refer to it as a "special edition", which included four extra tracks three music videos and some "making of" clips. So of course it's not just another way for the record company to cash in on one of their more popular bands.

The original eleven tracks are pretty decent. The hard points are heavy and the melodic points are well done. Killswitch Engage's sound isn't groundbreaking in the sense that their music is epic or moving, but they have this metalcore genre pegged. As such, fans of squealing guitars and crunchy vocals that are punctuated with displays of vocal splendor will certainly enjoy As Daylight Dies. On the subject of vocal splendor, the true strength of Killswitch Engage lies in Howard Jones' ability to go from deep, aggressive growls to actual singing without sacrificing quality on either end. Truly, he is a triumph.

As Daylight Dies is an entertaining album, however the music does not have enough variation to stop it from blending together. Such is their curse. This may be what the song "My Curse" is about, but I don't think so.

At any rate, the tracks included on the special edition are better than what the original album contained. The most notable would be their cover of Dio's "Holy Diver". They did an amazing job modernizing the song while staying true to its original sound. Howard Jones not only made what he could of the song's ridiculous lyrics, but added his own spin on the rhythm that worked out peachy keen. The video for "Holy Diver" is as hilarious as it is awesome, and luckily is included on the disc. For those who want instant gratification, the video is more than likely available on the Internets.

All in all, the album appeals to one's heavier side quite nicely. It is a bit sad to think that the best song on the album was a cover, but at least it was a cover of "Holy Diver". That song is fun as hell to sing along to. I suggest you go do it now.