Finally after a line up change and numerous delays, we have ‘Desolation (UK)’s’ second full length album. This UK band is relentless with their quality live performances at various locations around the UK. It is fair to say that they are something of a hidden gem in the prog-infused melodic death metal genre.
There is a definite air of quality from the opening track, with emotion, aggression, and technical brilliance with excellent clean and dirty/death metal vocals. All the elements are here. ‘Till the Epilogue Plays’ is a true epic track as the name suggests. The guitar riffs are mesmerising with a well thought out song structure that flows with natural ease. I can’t say that there are many flaws in this; it gives you a great feeling when listening to the music. It reminds me of the thoughts and anticipation you used to get with classic prog rock albums released in the 1970’s.
‘Long Forgotten’ (a recent live favourite over the last few months) sits perfectly as a faster paced number. Stuart Norman’s vocals are much improved since their last album outing, it just seems as if there is depth and maturity in abundance. ‘When Eyes Bleed Cold’ shows diversity whilst still retaining the overall ‘Desolation’ sound, the guitar work is particularly stunning and inspiring. The only thing I would say could be better is the recording sound of the drums, whilst still good in the mix, they do sound quite quiet in terms of the full bombastic sound produced by the other instruments in some places.
This album will definitely appeal to fans of ‘Opeth’, ‘Sentenced’, ‘Dark Tranquility’ and ‘Skyclad’. ‘Desolation’ band have been on the verge of great success for a couple of years now, and with this release, it should help them immensely.
At over 60 minutes of pure progressive death metal genius, this is an essential purchase for fans of this genre and a worthy addition to the UK metal scene’s back catalogue.
http://www.lexiconv.com
http://www.myspace.com/ukdesolation
http://www.desolation.org.uk/
