How a Metallica tour taught a metal band to slow down
In short: In 2007, Avenged Sevenfold faced a sonic dilemma. Playing high-speed metal in massive amphitheaters meant their intricate riffs were getting lost in the crowd. To cut through the noise of 80,000 people, they did something unexpected: they slowed the tempo and embraced the groove.
Released on October 30, 2007, the self-produced fourth studio album by Avenged Sevenfold marked a significant stylistic pivot. Moving away from the frantic speed metal and power metal of their previous work, *City of Evil*, the band sought a more 'open' sound. This shift was a direct reaction to their touring experiences, specifically observing how bands like Disturbed and System of a Down used mid-tempo grooves to command massive arenas and amphitheaters.
The resulting record was a commercial juggernaut, debuting at number 4 on the Billboard 200. While critical reception was mixed—with Metacritic hosting an average score of 56 out of 100—the album resonated deeply with fans. It eventually earned a Kerrang! Award for Best Album in 2008 and was ranked as the band's best work in a *Revolver* fan poll.
The album also stands as a poignant final chapter for certain collaborations. It was the last studio recording to feature drummer The Rev's performance before his death during the production of their 2010 follow-up, *Nightmare*. The record showcased the band's expanding musical palette, incorporating country influences in 'Dear God' and even using brass and string sections for the avant-garde 'A Little Piece of Heaven'.
The album's commercial footprint remains substantial. In the United States, it has been certified platinum by the RIAA, with sales exceeding 960,161 copies as of 2014. In the United Kingdom, it achieved gold status through the BPI, having sold over 152,123 copies.
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