MOTIONLESS IN WHITE

MOTIONLESS IN WHITE has been around for more than two decades, but you'd never know it. Somehow, they still seem new and on the cutting edge of what's next. The Scranton, Pennsylvania, group has built a legacy on championing the vibe and feel of alternative culture, while bringing together heavy metal, goth, industrial, electronic, rock and everything in between.

Now, on their seventh full-length album, "Decades", MOTIONLESS IN WHITE continue to try new things and set trends, diving into new territory while still weaving in their notably dark textures. Chris Motionless and company are finding new ways to express themselves that still sound like MOTIONLESS IN WHITE while also feeling fresh and novel.

The band gave its first taste of the album with "Afraid of the Dark", and it's easy to understand why the song caught fire. It's melodic, emotional, guttural and packed with the kind of soaring hooks that MOTIONLESS IN WHITE have become so good at writing. The track simply delivers, and it's one of the album's strongest moments.

Then there's "Playing God" featuring Corey Taylor, and it's every bit as explosive as you'd hope. The synths create an uneasy atmosphere before the guitars crash through, while the relentless double-bass drums keep everything charging forward. It's heavy, theatrical and super addictive.

The pace shifts with "R.I.P." featuring Skylar Grey, and the result is one of the album's emotional focal points. Piano and haunting synths set the mood before Grey's delicate vocals meet Chris's raw delivery. They complement each other beautifully.

Meanwhile, "Count Back From Zero" throws the band into cyberpunk territory, and it absolutely works. Pulsing synths, pounding beats and shimmering electronics collide with heavy guitars. This one is stylish, strong and surprisingly danceable without sacrificing a bit of attitude.

Every one of these songs stands out for different reasons. Together they show a band that's still evolving while sounding completely comfortable in its own skin. It doesn't get much better than that for a band looking to leave a lasting legacy.

MOTIONLESS IN WHITE aren't interested in playing it safe, and this latest chapter proves the band is still finding new ways to push their sound without losing the heaviness that got them here. The album feels darker, bigger and more adventurous, which says a lot coming from a group as adventures as they are. Everything clicks together, creating a record that keeps the listener on their toes from start to finish.