Rating: NN
As a B-sides collection culled predominantly from the recording sessions of the band’s last, less-than-awe-inspiring record, Diamonds is meant to accompany their recently released live DVD. Consider it a package deal for fans who can’t get enough.
On its own, though, it’s a batch of weak material that for whatever reason didn’t cut the mustard first time around, along with a handful of covers, including Pantera’s Walk, which doesn’t even come close to the original’s ferocity. Add in a so-so Iron Maiden cover and the result is gratuitously dull and completely unnecessary for all but the the group’s most serious admirers.
Avenged Sevenfold hit Sound Academy tonight (Thursday, September 11).
