Israel’s Subterranean Masquerade have actually been around in one guise or another for over 15 years, but with a pretty much stable line-up in place since 2018, this fourth album (the first by the band since 2017) is a bit of a highly anticipated release in Progressive Metal circles. Like fellow Israeli band Orphaned Land, Subterranean Masquerade introduce Eastern and traditional elements into their songs which although generally more subtle than O.L, always helps make their releases a diverse, unique and interesting affair, and “Mountain Fever” carries that forward again, but with so much more.
Subterranean Masquerade 2021 immediately bring a new element to their sound as parts of opener ‘Snake Charmer’ remind me very much (both vocally and musically) of the avant-garde Metal style showcased so well by Conception on their most recent offering, a vibe that crops up throughout this album. This blends well with their own psychedelic leanings as well as Eloy/Pink Floyd/IQ type traditional progressive moments and arrangements through to echoes of modern prog-tagonists like Riverside or Opeth. Subterranean Masquerade don’t stop there though, there’s plenty of harsh vocals for added aggression, darker tracks with organ touches reminiscent of Green Carnation and enough of a post-black attitude to interest fans of Ihsahn and In The Woods.
And yet, as is always the case with Subterranean Masquerade, it’s all wrapped up so much in their own style and delivery that fans of the band will find this album instantly recognisable. For instance, not many bands can get away with a wretched almost Metalcore-type vocal verse, blending with a modern prog bridge and segueing into a lengthy end sequence with gospel style vocals and lead guitar licks, like something Lynyrd Skynyrd might throw at us. Well, as ‘Somewhere I Sadly Belong’ is testament to, Subterranean Masquerade can – and they get away with it! There are no rules with this band and it’s utterly refreshing.
The music on this album is immensely well thought out and crafted, for ultimate atmosphere and impact. It has many depths and it almost seems unreal how many new things you can hear with each listen. The vocals are as varied as the music, matching each mood-swing perfectly, memorable yet unpredictable. Subterranean Masquerade have pushed the boundaries again, and if this is the way it’s going to be for the band going forward with this line-up, then more great things can only follow.
(8/10 Andy Barker)
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