I've heard 12 of the 13 songs. And I can say I'm very impressed. Don't let the single ruin it for you. Those are the 3 worst songs on the album, rest assured.
I've been very harsh on the band in the past 3 or 4 years. Ever since the downslide that started with Clayman. But I can tell you that this is better than the last two albums. Less clean vocals this time around. And better songwriting on the whole. Much more melody than R2R. Though less solos. But let's face it...In Flames hasn't written any good solos since Colony. So, I don't care.
And heavy as fuck. F(r)iend has more metal in it than the entirety of R2R.
Needless to say, guys, I'm pleasantly surprised.
And My Sweet Shadow is one of the best songs the band has written in 4-5 years.