More lows than highs

The most controversial artist in modern rock has returned with his latest, “The High End of Low.” The 15-track collection has the same kind of sound Marilyn Manson has thrived for more than a decade.

Many of the songs deal with more realistic relationship issues, as Manson went through a divorce with Dita Von Teese in 2007, but Manson is still trying to cause a stir.

“Blank and White” starts with a catchy, sustained guitar riff that soon picks up the pace as he delivers another lyrical diatribe against society: “Give me a picket sign / Make it blank and white / Like all those stupid teenage girls / We are going to need them where we’re going tonight.” But in the final verse, Manson delivers perhaps his most controversial line in a while: “Give me a picket sign / God is dead but God is still white / Let’s shoot up the mall, the school or the president of whatever / Or whoever wants to fight.”

Because of this verse, “Blank and White” is censored even on the uncensored version, with the line “or the president of whatever” replaced with a long beep.Though it’s one of the better tracks, it will likely be the most attention-grabbing because of the lyrics and because it feels like a mostly successful attempt to regain an older style.

On “Running to the Edge of the World,” the band starts off with a soft, acoustic guitar to set the tone. Though rarely changing pace, it keeps a steady flow, helping to add variety.

“The High End of Low” is mellower than Manson’s previous work. Although there is plenty of variety, a few songs sound too similar on the second half, with many taking off and then failing to go anywhere. At least the controversial artist has released an album his die-hard fans will enjoy.