I'm too old (and apathetic) to argue whether or not it's real metal. I'm part of a couple of Facebook groups and that's all they ever seem to so...argue over definitions...or argue over whether Christians should listen to Slayer.
I like the blending of synths/strings and heavy guitars. I also like the way they go from fairly heavy riffs to almost poppy sections.
Like I said...it sounds like metal to me...even when he does the growling vocals.