'Following 2007's lacklustre Eat Me, Drink Me, the uncommon introspection of which was prompted by his failed marriage to burlesque performer Dita Von Teese, Marilyn Manson seemed a spent force. While High End Of Low isn't nearly the equal of career highlights Mechanical Animals and Holy Wood, it nevertheless proves there's still a fair dose of blood and bile to pour from his carcass yet. More impressively, at its best it provides a pointed satirical commentary on noughties America.
'This return to form of sorts is partly down to the return of bassist and co-songwriter Twiggy Ramirez, who parted company with Manson in 2002. It's his lolloping bassline that powers what would be High End Of Low's most clear-cut hit (if it wasn’t more full of swears than Gordon Ramsay's kitchen on a bad day). Even its title - "Arma-Goddamn-F***ng-Geddon" - doesn't escape. Redolent of "Beautiful People"; while this isn't going to win Manson new admirers, existing fans will be relieved to hear he can still kick out the jams.' (BBC Music review and Full Album Delux Edition torrent download).
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