Ruiner begins with the gentle, intricate melody introduction to The King Is Dead before shortly revealing its true nature as punk-influenced metalcore (obviously no surprise to the bandā€™s existing fans or anyone who saw the name of Bill Stevenson in the production credits). The album is characterised by hard-hitting rhythms, crunchy riffs and occasional guitar wankery. Vocalist Nuno Pereiraā€™s muscley delivery is also softened by some melodic lines.

The agitated Killing It boasts a particularly memorable chorus, while The Pool is scattershot, with the music capturing the internal struggle of the lyrics. In Vino Veritas II is less aggressive, but the sense of power even in this restrained moment prevents it sounding like just the token soft song on the album.

Two of the albumā€™s highlights also have its most noteworthy song titles ā€“ Me Vs. Morrissey In The Pretentiousness Contest (The Ladder Match) rivals Brand New for striking titles, and is graced with a very strong chorus offsetting the shredding verses. Meanwhile, the very title of The Kids Can Eat A Bag Of Dicks is a big fuck you salute to the bandā€™s ostensible target demographic.

The illustrated lyric sheet is also noteworthy, tying into the lyrics of the addictive Less Bright Eyes, More Deicide (another great title, backed up by an equally great song).

Itā€™s a convincing album, and although Pereira sings, ā€?I am so fucking boredā€¯ on The Soft Sell, itā€™s unlikely that listeners will feel the same way while listening to this record.

Owen Heitmann