Kittie

Despite countless line-up changes, record label issues and other difficulties, Canada's women of metal ― core members and sisters Morgan and Mercedes Lander ― are back with a new album, a new label and their best line-up to date. Although In the Black is yet another departure from Kittie's Spit and Oracle heyday, the fifth full-length from the band exemplifies their progression towards a more mature, but still aggressive, sound. With this record, Kittie capture the sound of '70s classic rock and '80s metal, combined with a modern style. Morgan continues to make use of her signature black metal-esque shrieks, interspersed with clean singing, which she has honed over the years. Guitarist Tara McLeod also shines throughout, with catchy riffs that are clearly influenced by Testament's The Legacy. Although 2001's Oracle remains Kittie's best release, in terms of sound and songwriting, In the Black surpasses expectations.