Amanethes

Nuclear Blast

The ever increasing popularity of the Gothic Metal front is widely becoming more and more recognized in mainstream circles and the latest release from veteran Gothsters Tiamat is sure to be a new catalyst in the advancement of the genre’s staying power. Amanethes plunges the listener head first through an array of deep introspectiveness with which one may delve into the indefinite nadir of perception exploring the dark human psyche.

Absent from the scene since 2004’s Prey, Amanethes is a much needed breath of fresh air that fans have begged for continuously due in part to the fact that nearly every Gothic Metal outfit in existence today boasts a female fronted formula. The ever passionate and brooding voice of vocalist Johan Edlund is in fine form hear though and while the bands sound has ventured into areas of Death and Black Metal in past releases Amanethes is by far the bands most consistent and memorable album in years. For Goth Metal enthusiasts though, be warned that this particular installment tends to be a bit more Goth Rock than Goth Metal and may not sit well with everyone. Fans of traditional Goth incarnations such as the Sisters of Mercy and Bauhaus will most likely be at home here than fans of say Moonspell or Type O Negative but there are a few poignant Metal moments that should not be overlooked nonetheless.

Stand out favorites include "Equinox of the Gods", “Until The Hellhounds Sleep Again”, "Via Dolorosa" and "Raining Dead Angels" among others. All in all this is a very heavy laden Goth masterpiece that deserves serious consideration by all interested parties.

-Priest