To say this album is one of the greatest ever made, isn't terribly far from the truth. This is one of three albums that has earned a five star rating from me (and this guy rated nearly 3000 of them - dogmeat). The Sheer beauty this album presents is unmatched. A somber, melancholic atmosphere tinged with depression. The title Symphonic Doom Metal hardly does justice to the music made. The band is essentially a one man project of ***, who utilizes session musician to bring his work to life. Though that in no way compromises the quality of the music. The music is primarily crafted with the focus on atmosphere and beauty, but that doesn't stop the music from being wonderfully written and performed. ***'s music is created using a wide array of instruments including a Lute, Violin, Keyboards, and Flute, among others. They also incorporate a variety of vocal techniques and styles. Their previous release *** was done as a full band, though very beautiful in it's own way, I feel this one far surpasses it. Unlike *** which feature long 15-30 minute tracks, this album has shorter songs, referred to as ***.
The album starts with a solo Lute instrumental, a beautiful melancholic piece that set the stage wonderfully for the rest of the album. The Lute creates such a gorgeous sound, and shows itself a pivotal part of the album throughout. The Intro bleeds nicely into the first chapter, which is to me one of the many highlights of the album. The Lute soon accompanied by a violin builds up to a perfect release where we're treated to the beautiful vocals of ***, and some stunning guitar work from ***. A godly track, embracing the listener in it melancholy and beauty. You can't help but feel a sense of Autumn, the chilled air and somber depression. *** (this is the song I chose - dogmeat) is another mini masterpiece, the longest chapter on the album, clocking just over 10 minutes. It flows beautifully, the composition is simply stunning. The violins entwining with the gorgeous keys dance before you, evoking a somber, melancholic atmosphere. *** opens with more gorgeous violins and keyboard work. The drums and guitars soon join in, and the Black Metal like vocals wander their way in as well, yet manage not to overpower the gentle somber atmosphere throughout. Despite being labeled Metal this album lulls the listener, it's a very soothing and relaxing album you can throw on as you lounge and stare out the window. Though much of the music is based around the Lute, the other instruments play key roles as well, each enhances and envelopes the listener in the beautiful atmosphere crafted. The Flute for one is prevalent throughout the album as well and is never an unwelcome addition. It's gentle sound usually serving to accompany or enhance the others. This album is primarily instrumental, using vocals somewhat sparingly, especially on the latter half. *** being entirely devoid of vocals, employing some Classical Guitar work, it has no need for them. *** is a short, but intense little piece that sets the way for the closing chapter quite nicely. The last ***, is beautiful, another high point on an album filled with them. The Keys and Flutes begin the piece, playing together to create a beautiful composition, the violin begins quietly, softly enhancing the atmosphere yet even more. The keys take center stage here, and don't disappoint, the guitar kicks in and builds the Atmosphere even higher, ushering in the somberly growled vocals, from there the composition becomes even more beautiful. All instruments are used perfectly to create an atmosphere worthy enough to close the album. The Song is stunning an amazing close to one of the most beautiful recordings ever made.
If you couldn't tell by my abusive use of the word beauty, this album is intensely beautiful. Relentlessly Melancholic, and stunningly well written. One of very few albums I would dare to call Perfect. If you haven't heard this masterpiece, do so.