These sinister Swedes are at album number six, and they have attained a great reputation. This seems to have expanded their musical development, non-so clearer than on this release. The traditional evil sections are present, but there is a wealth of complex arrangements and more power metal, particularly on tracks like ‘Voice of the Outsider’. In doing so, the album length is rather long in duration compared to predecessors, concluding with the 11-plus minute track ‘The Passions of Sophia’, which sounds like rousing power metal.
‘Oneiric Visions’ has a tribal drum intro and quickly thunders into a power galloping behemoth of metal in the character of their initial influences that are enhanced by the higher register vocal range this band have become known for. The same can be said for ‘The Blood Covenant’ which is as fast as it is evil, possessing plenty of chord structures that distort normality and augment the Portrait style. ‘The Sacrament’ exhibits a touch of groove and battle hardened metal, you may go into warrior mode for this tune.
‘One Last Kiss’ is a slow track; emotive via the vocals and solid from the music, but if you crave speed then look towards ‘Treachery’ with all the hallmarks you would expect. ‘Sound the Horn’ has the pace of black metal, the ripping fretwork of virtuoso music and as the listener; you may need to take a deep breath. ‘From the Urn’ sounds inspired by the famous Danish band that these Swedes are often referred to. The vocal melody in the chorus is certainly infectious and the tail off into the softer section seems effortless in its transition. ‘Die in My Heart’ is a touch more straightforward, The Scorpions approach springs to mind, but what sets it apart if the theatrical nature of the chord structure which changes the character following the intro.
As each album comes along, this band develop, they have made their own career with the inspiration of many other cults musicians that is commendably highlighted by their popularity. Whilst I have not found the same affliction to this release to that of two or so albums ago, this is still a strong album with the artwork depicting a little more direct darkness and evil. Whilst I may have witnessed this band over the years in Europe, a UK run of dates would be appropriate I feel! Just saying!
(8/10 Paul Maddison)
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