Finnish band Lost Society has finalized their stylistic evolution with the release of their sixth full-length album, Hell Is a State of Mind. The band, which once started with furious old-school thrash metal, now feels entirely at home within the territory of alternative metal and metalcore, enhanced by grand symphonic arrangements. This record sounds like a manifesto from musicians who have stopped looking back at genre boundaries and focused instead on creating the hardest-hitting, most ferocious, yet commercially appealing material possible. The four-year wait since their previous release has completely paid off, giving listeners one of the most unpredictable and daring releases of the year.

The musical content of the album surprises with its multi-layered nature and readiness for experimentation. Heavy, modernized groove riffs sit side-by-side with cinematic string sections and unexpected vocal choices from frontman Samy Elbanna. His delivery balances on the edge of extreme hardcore screams, clean rock vocals, and even elements of spoken-word delivery, which adds a unique dynamic to the songs. The shift to a more eclectic sound has not stripped the band of their signature frantic energy, but it has made the tracks more expansive, catchy, and ready for stadium arenas.