The hardcore/metalcore elements that were a large part of Fear My Thoughts’ early works are virtually absent on “Vulcanus,” leaving a stylish and high-energy entry into the melodic death metal realm. Sharp, potent riffs speed along over intricate and sophisticated percussion. Multiple layers of death growls fit the music wonderfully, and sparsely used clean vocals never sound awkward or out of place. Fear My Thoughts’ intelligent usage of electronic elements works well, particularly on the track “Blankness.” The song writing here is engaging and catchy as all hell though at times it all feels a tad too familiar, particularly if you’ve listened to a good deal of In Flames, Darkane, or Callenish Circle’s music. Some highlights on “Vulcanus” include what is arguably the heaviest track here: “Accelerate or Die” featuring guest appearances by Destruction’s Schmier and Siffringer, and the highly melodic instrumental title track.

”Vulcanus” marks Fear My Thoughts first release for Century Media Records, so their unknown status may soon change if they are given a decent amount of promotion by such a large and high profile label. I would certainly say they deserve more recognition, as they seem capable of creating melodic death metal at a level very near their peers in the genre. The only problem I see here is that so many good albums in this style get released that oftentimes perfectly fine albums tend to get neglected while attention is given to the next band’s release. Time will tell.