This month, we are also covering bands that used to be doom bands and have now evolved past the genre's bounds. These guys are following in the footsteps of Katatonia in this regard, so much so that the first song reminds me of Katatonia. Being from Finland there is ample gloom cast over the grandiose production. I really liked "Moonflowers" It earned a 9.5, so the bar is held high for them, let's see if they can measure up again this time. The second song contrasts a deliberate crunch and harsh vocals with atmospheric touches as they allow breathing room in the spacious arrangements. There is some great guitar work on this song, and they find an effective dynamic balance of heavy tones.
This album requires multiple listens to fully sink in. "Melancholy" benefits from an urgent vocal melody in the verse. The chorus is more complex than arena metal tends to be. Their progressive leanings are still a thing that helps set them apart from their peers or just another band paying homage to the Peaceville era. "Under the Moon and Sun" is a moodier power ballad. It is well-written but does not pack the same punch. Things get heavier on "Kold" as they stomp into song, before the call and response with the sun vocals.
"November Dust" is almost a Type O Negative tribute, I guess it's not a coincidence that the title is a play on "October Rust". They do a better job than the dude from Spirit Adrift's Neon Nightmare project, which might as well be a covers album, they at least maintain their identity. "Velvet Chains" is more of a fragile ballad that almost gets consumed by its ambiance. A new pop folk vibe, haunts it slightly. 'Tonight Pain Believes" is catchier but it just kind of falls out of the other song, I thought the previous song just took a hookier turn.
"Charcol Sky" is the first song in a minute that has embraced the more metallic side, even growled vocals return. The title track that closes the album soars off into the sunset with its melodic lushness but also has an undercurrent of double bass to keep it moving. I will give this album a 9, it works well enough, and these guys are seasoned pros so it is going to sound great no matter what, for my tastes, I prefer the darker tone of their previous work is better when it comes to songwriting, but there are no slouches on this one either. This is the album they wanted to make and most fans will be happy with it.
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