It's a teaser, a temptation to do an album review of a band/artist of a genre you rarely listen to. The formula may be simple reviewing a favorite act's release - or an effort belonging to your musical taste in general - since you have the sufficient data to refer to, be it the music or the lyrical approach, the production or the cross-link to alike releases. But what about starting from the dark, trying to present a work YOU must at first try to evaluate as a mere listener; take no prisoners...
A brief The Bereaved bio: the band was formed in 1998 by Mikael Nillson and Henrik Tranemyr. Their first Demo release, Inverted Icons (2003), did achieve enough recognition in the underground extreme Metal circles. Thus, a contract with Greece's premier Metal label Black Lotus Records was soon inked. Into the raw, now...
The Beraved will probably be adored by fans of the Swedish Death Metal scene. Featuring all the basic constituents that made bands like At The Gates (mainly), The Haunted or Dark Tranquility so successful and recognizable, Darkened Silhouette is dominated by Thrash/Speed rhythms that stick to your mind, whereas the total atmosphere created will forward your feelings to common titles as darkness, obscurity and vice. There's no need to state that the ghost of Slayer is - even if not that apparent - flying over all tracks, whereas the interesting melodic/macabre guitar work reveals a duo of capable musicians, rather proud of their skills. Furthermore, notable bass lines and the furious vocals of Westerback generate an overall mix that - even if not labeled as innovative - can be surely judged as fascinating, accurate and admirable. Also noted: the marvelous production, taking place at Studio Underground (Carnal Forge, Construcdead etc), and the full mastering via Athens Mastering studio. But, apart from all that, what did you expect from a Swedish band?
I am definitely NOT the messenger of fate, but - as far as I'm concerned - this band is worth checking out! I don't know how many Swedish-like releases are airing this period but Darkened Silhouette really made me move my head, hands and feet at various times. This certainly is a proceed to get sign for all Scandinavian Thrash/Death Metal followers.
- Album Highlight: The fourth track's title... I didn't do it!