Artist: In Flames
Title: Clayman
Label: Nuclear Blast
Cat #: NB54462
Release Year: 2021
Duration: Album
Format: CD
Packaging Type: Jewel Case

Clayman, the fifth studio album by the esteemed Swedish heavy metal band In Flames, made its resounding debut via Nuclear Blast on July 3, 2000. Embracing a somber theme, the album's lyrics delve into the depths of depression and internal struggles. Notably, Clayman stands as the final testament to In Flames' original melodic death metal sound. Subsequent to its release, the band embarked on a path of musical exploration, gradually infusing their future releases with diverse styles and experimental elements throughout the 2000s.

Within Clayman, listeners will find that the band opted for drop A# tuning on select tracks, such as "Pinball Map" and "...As the Future Repeats Today," akin to certain songs from their preceding album, Colony.

The album's cover art draws inspiration from Leonardo da Vinci's renowned masterpiece, the Vitruvian Man. Intriguingly, the iconic Jester Head makes appearances both on the album's cover and within the accompanying booklet. Furthermore, In Flames treated their fans to visually captivating music videos for the tracks "Pinball Map," directed by Tamara Jordan, and "Only for the Weak."

In summary, Clayman represents a pivotal release for In Flames, marked by its brooding themes and introspective lyrics. It serves as a poignant milestone, signaling the band's departure from their original melodic death metal style while laying the foundation for their subsequent sonic explorations in the years to come.

Recommended if you like: Opeth, Soilwork, Arch Enemy, Amon Amarth, Trivium, Gojira, Disturbed, Slipknot, Nightwish, Hypocrisy, Dimmu Borgir, Ensiferum

Track Listing:
1. Bullet Ride
2. Pinball Map
3. Only For The Weak
4. ...As The Future Repeats Today
5. Square Nothing
6. Clay Man
7. Satellites And Astronauts
8. Brush The Dust Away
9. Swim
10. Suburban Me
11. Another Day In Quicksand