Mixing the typical industrial power with an enhanced vocal and instrumental rawness, Marilyn Manson goes to interesting new depths with his ninth studio album, The Pale Emperor.

The album has a loud, open sound; Manson’s voice comes through in key moments with an emotional punch, and the prominent drums carry the songs along with a catchy yet simple rock style.

These songs are not overproduced in the slightest as one might expect from a rock star who has been in the game long enough to make nine albums.

“Killing Strangers” is a bit slow for an opening track. It might take listeners a minute or so to get hooked, but the song definitely reminds them right away of the classic Manson lyrical style.

He drags the words along rhythmically, “We’re killing strangers, so we don’t kill the ones that we love.”

“Deep Six” picks up the pace and is easily one of the more memorable songs on the album. The eerie introduction is broken into with a repetitive guitar hook that is enhanced with stronger industrial kicks throughout the song.

And listeners are ushered further into the darkness with the chorus, “Deep six, six, six feet deep.” Manson’s voice trudges into a rich, raspy territory as he nearly screams certain lines, then slows into a more soothing speaking tone.

Songs like “Mephistopheles Of Los Angeles” bring a bluesy, ‘70s rock vibe to the album while still tastefully incorporating heavy riffs and bass lines.

One thing “The Pale Emperor” lacks is song variety. The songs could stand alone and don’t really flow or build into one another.

“The Devil Beneath My Feet” is possibly the most Manson in character.

The lyrics speak for themselves, “Don’t need a (expletive) looking down on me…Least I know wherever I go, I got the devil beneath my feet.”

While the themes of the album are consistent with Manson’s typical messages, and ripping on religion is always rich song material, the same topics can get a bit stale.  But Manson articulates it well and without fear, as always.

Stephanie Markham can be reached at 581-2812 or [email protected].