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The new Decapitated shows some slight changes and tweaks to the sound the band has been developing, but still retains the passionate aggression that they've always been known for. This is a collection of songs that contains jagged rhythms, numerous changes of pace and a great deal of groove. I've seen many mentions that this album has noticeable similarities to Meshuggah and though there are definitely traces of influence, this is still decidedly a Decapitated album throughout and continues upon the ideas of the previous album Organic Hallucinosis. The band is still able to pull the listener into their eerie death metal groove and never release and this is seen on many of the tracks on Carnival is Forever.

The first three tracks on the disc make a huge impact and three of the best to be found here. Notably, the opener "Knife" gets the proceedings off to a furious start and the title track offers a demented changeable mood that gives the release some much need variety. Otherwise, "View in a Hole" had memorable rhythms and moments that made it another standout. The worst song on the album is by far "404" which ventures too far into the Meshuggah style instead of retaining the typical Decapitated sound, which is usually superior in the first place. Regardless, the material here is stellar and backed up by some strong instrumental performances. The guitar licks are punishing and versatile, as expected, and the drumming is extremely solid. The vocals aren't nearly as hardcore influenced as some are making them out to be, but sound slightly too similar to those of Meshuggah again. Guitar solos are also not quite exciting as they have been in the past. The amount of atmosphere and variation on the album makes up for any small flaws, however.

Carnival is Forever is just another solid Decapitated release and as good as anything they've done outside of Winds of Creation.