Mark Morton, the guitarist of Lamb of God, has revealed his favorite album from the band's extensive discography in a recent interview. Morton expressed his deep appreciation for 'As The Palaces Burn', released in 2003, citing its unique sound and early representation of the band's evolving style. He described it as a naive yet abstract record that, despite its simple instrumentation and production, sounds on fire and sonically like burning red and yellow.
Morton's choice of 'As The Palaces Burn' as his favorite is not just a nostalgic pick but also a deliberate one. He explained that the band's recent album, 'Into Oblivion', was influenced by a desire to re-engage with their earlier sound and step out of their comfort zones. This decision was inspired by the band's recent tour, where they played songs from their early albums that they hadn't performed in a long time, allowing them to reconnect with the patterns and moves they had mastered in their formative years.
The guitarist also discussed the band's compositional process, emphasizing the importance of guitar riffs in their songwriting. He and fellow guitarist Willie Adler often collect riffs independently before comparing notes, ensuring that the band's music remains intentional and deliberate. This process has been a cornerstone of Lamb of God's success, allowing them to build on their earlier work while staying true to their unique sound.
Morton's appreciation for 'As The Palaces Burn' goes beyond its musical elements. He believes it represents the band's early development and the elements they would eventually refine. The album's simple instrumentation and production, he argues, contribute to its unique character and the way it sounds on fire, despite its naive and abstract nature.
In conclusion, Mark Morton's choice of 'As The Palaces Burn' as his favorite Lamb of God album highlights the band's intentional approach to their music and their desire to stay true to their roots while pushing boundaries. This album, released over two decades ago, continues to resonate with fans and critics alike, solidifying Lamb of God's place as a cornerstone of the New Wave of American Heavy Metal.
