The quotient of amazing Swedish metal bands just seems to astound me. As I’m still new to this genre, this is my first experience with DARK TRANQUILITY, but damnit if I don’t say that this band knocked me off my feet. Storming the gates with six members, and a wall of gorgeously layered guitars, these guys have a monstrous sound that although is inherently dark, is full of buoyancy and stings like a slap to the face. Unlike many of their contemporaries, DARK TRANQUILITY’s vocalist, Mikael Stanne, sticks to his thick, rangey screaming, never dropping down into a comfortable melody. Although a bit derivative after 12 songs of mostly similar material, Stanne’s control, and overall ability to not sound like he’s garbling candy bars, really keeps the listener intently involved in keeping pace with the music. Stellar drumming and haunting electronics provide the backbone to “Damage Done,” rounding out that fluid, constantly moving sound. The first track, “Final Resistance,” is probably the catchiest song on here, and it definitely sets the pace for a romper in the depths of evil – of course, the blood splattered artwork does a good job at that too. Fans of IN FLAMES, BLEEDING THROUGH, DARKEST HOUR, and SOILWORK should eat this up.

Century Media

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