KEN Mode (Canada) - Venerable (sealed Digipak CD) (2011) Released by Profound Lore Records in a Digipak w/booklet.
It comes as absolutely no surprise that "Venerable" is a blistering piece of work, the record KEN MODE should have made years ago. The template is as same as ever: the rhythm section of Shane Matthewson and bassist Chad Tremblay churning away almost mechanically, creating a solid enough foundation for lead vocalist/guitarist Jesse Matthewson to unleash those riffs that veer from atonal screeches to slyly melodic movements. 
What Kurt Ballou brings to the table, though, is a sense of clarity to the recording. Venerable is stripped of clutter, the clarity of the mix ironically making the delivery all the more intense.  Seeing all the pieces finally fall into place for this hard-working band is certainly refreshing. 
For longtime fans of the band, this is the album you’ve been waiting for. For those unfamiliar with KEN Mode, brace yourselves.
Profound Lore Records – PFL-074