Dagorlad
Herald Of Doom ()
Wydane przez Shiver RecordsRok wydania Kraj BelgiumNapisał Wouter8
Bombastic, theatrical, atmospheric Belgian dark metal studio project by led by multi-instrumentalist and main composer Philippe Gandiblue. Much like "Starfire Burning upon the Ice-Veiled Throne of Ultima Thule" era Bal-Sagoth this is a concept album. Originally recorded in 2003-2006 this new album is now finally being released through Belgian label Shiver Records, who (incidentally) also released their 2002 debut "The End Of the Dark Ages" in a previous incarnation. The majority of the album is astoundingly similar to Bal-Sagoth in their "Starfire..." and "Battle Magic" era whereas the medieval instrumentation is akin to (early) Rhapsody, circa "Legendary Tales". The galloping riffs, the barbaric drums and the way the synthesizers prominently lead the guitars. The vocals by Frederic "AOD" Mercier remind a lot of (early) Ancient Rites, although he doesn't hold nearly as much punch or bite. Besides this first problem, the second problem is that the production doesn't put enough emphasis on the vocals - let alone the narrative and clean vocals – resulting in them being pushed away more than once. However Dagorlad's primary problem is that all tracks are filled to the brim with ideas which the band isn't always able to pull off. In contrary to their main inspirations Dagorlad doesn't possess the same brevity in songwriting craft and instrumental prowess. "Herald Of Doom" starts out strong with a cinematic intro and a couple of barbaric tracks but once the middle approaches the album loses steam and falls dead in its tracks. In the closing act Dagorlad picks up pace again and closes the album out strong despite the questionable mid section. "Herald Of Doom" will surely find its way to all Bal-Sagoth fans, but it is time for Dagorlad to carve out their own niche before their humble homagery turns into full blown plageriasm.
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