Album Review: Armored Saint – Emotion Factory Reset (Metal Blade Records)

Armored Saint, the iconic metal band, are back with their brand-new (and ninth) full-length studio album ‘Emotion Factory Reset’. Out on May 22nd, 2026, via Metal Blade.

I do enjoy a bit of Armored Saint and not just because John Bush is one of metal’s best vocalists. No, what I dig is the overall unit that is Armored Saint and how creative their metal sound often is. They know just how to deliver fiery head bangers that come with a memorable amount of power and this album is no different.

I love that we get two mighty anthems straight away, but two anthems that come from slightly different angles. First, there is Close to the Bone, a potent heavy rock tune with tons of flair and then there is Every Man-Any Man, a smile-inducing twist on the metal formula with Bush’s vocals taking on a mischievous role. Two tracks, two bangers that show off a more relaxed sounding Armored Saint.

They’re really giving off some good vibes and that continues into the guitar-driven experience that is Not On Your Life. A chance for many to dust off their air-guitar skills, especially when the solo hits. Then there is Hit a Moonshot, a ripping and roaring showcase of Armored Saint’s power which is sure to be a winner in the eyes of all fans of heavy music.

Do what you do and do it bloody well. That is the mantra of Armored Saint, and this focus really makes the difference. They’ve always been a tight band, but this is on another level and all because they’re not static and complacent. Take Buckeye for example, not only is it more melodic, which gives it a whole different kind of expression, but it features some really impactful lyrics delivered in Bush’s inimitable way.

The speed is back with aplomb as the second half of the album gets underway with Compromise. Again, the unity in the band and how locked in with each other they are means even more basic tracks like this send thrills and chills through the body. It is, at its core, enjoyable heavy metal and sometimes that is all anyone needs.

Though if you want a bit more meat to the bone, a track like It’s a Buzzkill and its off-kilter structure will charm. Whereas Throwing Caution to the Wind is groovy as hell, Ladders and Slides’ is so cool sounding, and Bottom Feeder is a punchy penultimate effort with some memorable riffs. Armored Saint keeping it strong right up to the end where the pace quickens and the clock is turned back to a more nostalgic time with the rampaging Epilogue. A kick ass final track that puts an emphatic exclamation mark on things.

Quality Armored Saint metal music as per usual. Blending heavy throwback elements with modern twists, delivered with comfortably and passion. I love it, and I think you will too.

Armored Saint – Emotion Factory Reset Track Listing:

1. Close to the Bone
2. Every Man-Any Man
3. Not On Your Life
4. Hit a Moonshot
5. Buckeye
6. Compromise
7. It’s a Buzzkill
8. Throwing Caution to the Wind
9. Ladders and Slides
10. Bottom Feeder
11. Epilogue

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