7/10

For a band that has been going as long as Biffy Clyro, there are inevitably going to be dips in both popularity and quality, especially with a sound that is so distinctly their own. And although their fans will always divide the band's legacy into before and after 'Puzzle', for the band themselves, it has been this latter stage of their career that has been the most problematic. With alcoholism, grief and depression almost tearing the band apart at various points over the last decade, they finally feel that they are comfortable with each other again as they return with their ninth full-length 'A Celebration Of Endings', a record that beams with the satisfaction that have found themselves in.

Although happiness and comfort have never been a good recipe for inspiration in the music world, especially when the band in question is best known for its cataclysmic riffs and vicious energy, but Biffy Clyro feel like they have found a joyful balance that looks to blend the hard-rock sound of their origins with something that showcases them in a far brighter and more uplifting guise. Gone are the days of frontman Simon Neil screaming his way through a barrage of earth-shattering hooks, we get to see them project a far happier demeanour throughout, where the bite may be blunter but still manages to break the skin in places.

Biffy Clyro have always managed to create a sound that is so original to them, even if it becomes tweaked from album to album, and this collection is no different. 'A Celebration Of Endings' is a strong and determined release that sees them explore the more euphoric sides of their direction, resulting in a safer yet still powerful offering.