Arch Enemy - Stigmata CD - Appearing as a special edition in the Pocket-Pac, including a 16-page booklet. Arch Enemy is the epitome of Swedish retro-thrash/death. These Nordic musicians deliver old-school banger riffs in the style of Slayer and Destruction with such ease and joy that it almost makes your neck muscles rotate on their own. Surprisingly, they manage to insert harmonious melodic licks amidst the chainsaw-like chord progressions, reminiscent of early Iron Maiden records and atmospheric death songs. Stigmata is further enhanced by its great song ideas and wonderfully aggressive, yet never exaggerated vocals. And the best part is: these guys can play like hell. Mastermind Michael Amott (of Spiritual Beggars/ex-Carcass) and his brother Christopher are one of the best guitar duos in the metal scene and know how to impressively showcase their technical abilities while always serving the songs. An absolute must for thrash/death fans!