Also on the subject of reviews, never forget that Battles got a shedload of great reviews... examples...
https://loudwire.com/in-flames-battles-album-review/
"It was a fruitful collaboration, resulting in one of In Flames’ strongest albums in years."
"The songs were written by Friden and guitarist Bjorn Gelotte, who along with Niclas Engelin, provides a plethora of memorable riffs. That’s exemplified on songs like the anthemic "The Truth.” They also deliver first class riffage and a tasty solo on “Before I Fall.”
"those who appreciate In Flames’ recent output should enjoy Battles. It’s heavier than 2014‘s Siren Charms, but even more melodic with better songwriting."
https://www.loudersound.com/reviews/in-flames-album-review-battles - 3.5/5
"Melodeath pioneers In Flames return to their spiritual home with new album"
"if
Siren Calls was the point at which In Flames lost you, then this might just be the olive branch needed to bring you back on board. Technical, heavy, catchy and proof that sometimes a little turbulence is what’s needed to shake a band out of stagnation."
https://distortedsoundmag.com/album-review-battles-in-flames/ - 7/10
"
Battles as a standalone album is very good, both in the delivery and technical side of things, and for those who have not come across the band before then it is an enjoyable listening experience."
https://www.rocksins.com/2016/11/in-flames-battles-29369-29369/ - 8/10
"There are several moments sprinkled across ‘Battles’ that are truly gripping."
"Whilst there are moments that are dull and largely forgettable, there are moments where ‘Battles’ will truly grip you. These moments are the record’s saving grace, moments which capture your attention and leave you begging for more."
https://myglobalmind.com/2016/11/19/in-flames-battles-review/ - 8/10
"The latest 12 track offering from Sweden’s IN FLAMES titled Battles is full of hooks and technical brutality that both old and new fans of the band will enjoy."
"IN FLAMES are an example of what it means to steadfastly stay true to your vision. "
"Battles mixes the old melodic death metal roots with the modern electronic sound"
"it’s got a clear modern feel throughout, with really great mastering and production."
This entire review is just ridiculous, no point giving any more quotes. Utter delusion. "David Bell" - bell is right.
https://metalwani.com/2016/10/review-in-flames-battles.html - 7/10
"Twelve albums in, and 'Battles' represents somewhat of a return to form for In Flames. What we have here is the perfect encapsulation of all that makes up the modern delineation of the band: concentrated contemporary metal."
https://progressivemusicplanet.com/2016/10/30/in-flames-battles/ - 8.5/10
"I’ve also read people bitching about Anders Fridén’s clean vocals. He screams plenty on this entire album and for me, his clean vocals sound better than ever. I’m not sure what fans want from the guy. Maybe they want him to sound exactly like he did on “Whoracle” or “Colony” or “The Jester Race.” That’s 20 fucking years ago. Let it go.
Is “Battles” classic In Flames? No but if I wanted that, I’d go listen to the old albums. I want good songs. This album has plenty of good songs. It also has an energy that cannot be denied. This is a band that is progressing. Regression would be repeating what they’ve already done. “Battles” is not a re-run. If you don’t like “Battles,” I get it. But realize that it’s not In Flames, it’s you."
https://themetalist.net/album-review-in-flames-battles/
"The bottom line is that no, ‘Battles‘ is not ‘The Jester Race II‘, but would any true In Flames fan really want that? It’s a solid album that makes for good listening over and over again, an album you can easily play in your car on the way to work, or simply play to unwind to. In Flames haven’t struck gold with this one, but they have certainly made the right album."