Reunited and it feels so good. Korn’s eleventh studio album “The Paradigm Shift” brings back many electronic and melodic elements of the band’s earlier releases such as “Issues” and “Untouchables.”

Korn guitarist Brian “Head” Welch’s return after an eight-year absence brought new life to Korn. The rebirth led to a very creative and true return-to-form for the band.

I immediately noticed the guitars are back at the forefront in this album.

It’s been so long since Korn has released a guitar driven album and the opener “Prey For Me” sets things off in a big way. It has a heavy hitting sound mixed with soaring vocals, one that I personally can’t wait to see live down in the mosh pit.

After Korn’s dubstep catastrophe and their last album, “The Path of Totality,” I feared the band had strayed too far and lost themselves in the electronic sound with one too many bass drops and not enough guitar riffs.

I have been deeply saddened with each album after the “Untouchables” for I saw them going down the wrong path and thought they completely lost it when “Head” left the band.

Those who might be hesitant to buy “The Paradigm Shift” because they noticed the same things can rest assured.

They have been resurrected and are back in the game.

The electronic influence is still present but it doesn’t dominate the sound. The guitars are well defined along with Reginald “Fieldy” Arvizu’s thumping bass which is vital to their sound and identity.

The first single “Never Never” is a prime example of their how their new-found balance between industrial elements and their metal roots works.

Korn managed to incorporate it in their favor, rather than drown out the instrumentals.

This album is a combination of their earliest triumphs and the redeeming elements of their recent struggles.

Tracks like “Love & Meth” and “Spike In My Veins” highlights the classic Korn sound I have been longing for.

Korn was a huge part of my teenage angst and I have to admit those songs really bring back some memories.

Those who were disappointed with Korn’s work in the past decade should enjoy this album. It’s a breath of fresh air. One of the most important rock bands of this generation is back from dead.

Rating: B+