Any band could seek identity in two general directions – either by making surprising jumps style-wise, or by re-discovering forgotten old values that were the initial source of inspiration. The Haunted decided to experiment and put the pedal to the metal with “The Dead Eye” (2006). Sadly it seemed to be against traffic, as the album made the hairs on most of their fans’ heads stand up, rather than amaze them with boldness. Now, as it could have been expected, they’re back in their own lane enriched by the experiment, but having remembered the roots. The expected from The Haunted version of newschool thrash of their own is being poured on the listener’s ears. Fast, balls-out brutal, melodic, yet lacking the Maiden-esque glamor common for most of their countrymen, replaced with rather stoner rock-ish darkness… and a frontman possessed by demons. Tue Madsen is the producer once again making things as authentic as possible. “Moronic Colossus” opens the album with cannonade of classic Haunted riffs, taking turns with slower moments where Peter Dolving’s insanity takes lead. The next song “Pieces” brings in more melody. “Skuld” is like a ghostly prelude to the album’s fastest and thrashiest track “Crusher”. “Iron Mask” is a haunting dark song, that is being led by one of the catchiest riffs in The Haunted’s whole career. And this is just setting up the place for the closing combo of “Faultline” and “Imperial Death March” – probably the best songs on the album. And while “The Dead Eye” was a soundtrack to Dolving’s emotional breakdown, showing weakness more than all, yet the honest and inspiring kind of, “Versus” is again the contagious insanity and aggression that is expected from this band. As you listen to the album you can’t help picturing the Swedish nutcase screaming all his demons out with foaming at his mouth! In other word – the haunting evil that makes you want to bash your head against the wall is back again. And, excuse me, but that’s what I’ve liked about The Haunted all along.