It's a shame their homebase of Germany has routinely kept Waterdown from getting the visibility they deserve in the North American scene. As proven on their past albums and now "All Riot", the band have consistently delivered a melting pot of metalcore, punk, emo and more that, while not revolutionary, has enough heart to keep the listener enthusiastically following along.

The five or so years that have passed since the bands last album have seen their share of ups and downs and while Waterdown now have a new vocalist involved in their two-pronged assault, no noticeable damage seems to have been incurred. Similarities are still shared to groups like Haste and Vaux as the band pair melodic vocals and feverish aggression overtop of an ever changing, but melodically anchored, soundscape.

However, where Waterdown used to have blunt edges and large drop offs in the past, there are now very smooth and polished transitions which showcase a more refined style. This depth and shrewdness help make for a more cohesive package than the band have been able to deliver in the past and see a stronger current of momentum race through their songs as a result.

Still, while a shade lighter than the band have been previously, there are numerous moments of craggy musical curiousity and enough opposing layers of riffage and soaring vocals to incite a healthy mosh. However, while the band have matured and evolved there is a lack of hook and memorability to this album that sees it failing to stand out. For all the well-written songs, poignant musicanship and unrelenting snarls, nothing sticks out and says 'play me again.'

That said, while many of their North American counterparts are lost in a muddle of bloated arena rock balladry, glam band scuzz or trauma inducing grind, it's nice to see these gentlemen mix a number of genres together and still come up with favorable, non-cliche, results. Now if only they can mold their craft into something that is as striking as it is appealing.