To start off I want to make a statement that there is a distinguished difference between “melo death-” and “melodic death” metal. When I selected to review this band from Athene, I sincerely thought it would be this heavy melodic death metal; heavy riffs, growling and screaming. But it is none of this. Basically, after about a song or two you’ll find yourself listening to a heavier version of the band HIM (or HER).

 

It isn't Intoxicated with a bunch of stand alone riffs, there are only a few real riffs on the entire album. Most of its sound is created by the keyboard. The guitars just seem to lack any real depth. Somewhere halfway the album, the song ‘Extinction’ really kicks off with (finally) a heavy riff supported by heavy drums which really get the music going. However, this flow is wasted after about 22 seconds when they stop the riff and kick in the keyboard (I actually shouted: “NO!!”).

 

Woven into their music, there are some peaks that aim towards a more modern deathcore style. Not with any breakdowns per se, more the riff balance with the drums. All the songs are packed with either clean or distorted vocals, it's not really growling, nor is it screaming. It's more like the vocalist is shouting from a distance through some sort of device. It's nothing new, basically everything they do has been done better.

 

I really feel everything I’ve written about the album sounds a bit negative but don't get me wrong, they don't sound bad. The recordings are clear, tight and well taken care of. But this entire band is clearly aiming to go somewhat mainstream, and I don't like their “we are melodic metal” approach. I would place it in the “love metal" genre. Nonetheless; if you're a fan of this genre (read: HIM, In Flames), I would give it a listen. Just don't expect a world shocking experience.

Review by: Polly