Shadows Fall's rise to prominence has been almost meteoric throughout the last four years and in turn, through impressive sales and relentless touring, they have become the flagship act for longtime metal label Century Media. It is by no surprise then that this latest offering comes with high expectations, not only to exceed the over 100,000 plus sales of their last effort, but especially to stave off the countless like-minded bands in this crowded spectrum of the genre already chomping at the bit to overtake them.

If anything, since the release of "Of One Blood" Shadows Fall have become more accessible, embracing a cohesive songwriting style that blends early 80's British invasion metal with mid 80's Metallica and a healthy dosage of European thrash. This trend continues on "The War Within", featuring more melodic vocals, more complex and intricate shredding and a surprisingly more grandiose approach than is usual for the band. Of course there are still innumerable solo's, heavy breakdowns and a wealth of dynamic energy exerted throughout. Yet on the whole the results are nearly a carbon copy collage of their influences and seem all the more predictable as a result.

Evolution is a much-needed commodity in the metalcore scene in 2004 and unfortunately it doesn't look like Shadows Fall are intent on delivering it. Instead they seem more content to plunder the past which makes their material sound like a modern metalcore band attempting to make a cover medley of songs done by groups like Metallica, Anthrax and a few choice European acts. Sure it's played with heart and stunning technical prowess. But that doesn't mean it isn't uninspired and tiresome, with too much being attempted in each song and too few new elements being practiced. While metal in this vein may have been a much-needed breath of fresh air from the stagnancy of nu-metal a few years back, it is quickly on the same route to becoming just as cliche. Unfortunately "The War Within" isn't going to change that, as its weaponry is worn down from constant use and its methods are far too commonplace to turn the tides in its favor.