If ever there was a release that made me double check if I was listening to the correct album it was the latest release from Gothenburg’s own, The Haunted. “Unseen” marks the bands transition from Thrash stalwarts to a hybrid Strapping Young Lad complete. Peter Dolving re-introduction to the band appeared to be the catalyst which began the progressive evolution in style through 2004’s "rEVOLVEr", 2006’s “The Dead Eye" (2006) and 2008’s "Versus", to date; the bands seventh studio album.

A fan of “One Kill Wonder” best stop reading now as “Unseen” has little to offer in the way of rekindling the Marco Aro era of The Haunted. Each of the 12 songs is markedly different from the next and the band has succeeded in producing an album of contrasting influences and styles while still somehow not loosing the essence of The Haunted’s sound. Album opener “Never Better” is a little misleading as it is perhaps the most “traditional” sounding song on the album with its abrasive and furious attack but gives no indication as what is to follow.

“No Ghost” has all the hallmarks of a Clutch song with its Southern Stoner vibe and not what any of us would have come to expect from the Björler brothers. Yet this diverse contrast of styles works curiously, creating that juxtaposition between the Thrashy aggressive songs and the more traditional metal moments. Truly producing a ying and yang style of music, and never more so than Peter Dolving’s vocals which flex between the melodic to his more accustomed raucous screams and shouts.

“Unseen” is sure to polarise the opinion of existing fans, but for those willing to persevere a new found appreciation for the album begins to emerge. The previously awkward collection of styles makes way to the realisation that The Haunted are no ordinary band and are not content to stagnate, producing the same album time and time again. “Unseen” is undoubtedly a risky release but on balance was certainly a risk worth taking.