Melodic Symphonic Power Death Metal... is that a thing? It might be, who knows. Essentially this is the best description I can use for this band, except for the cop out of just saying Modern Metal. IN SOMNIA combine all of these elements to create what is a highly energetic and highly listenable affair with "Withered Frozen Perished". The guitars would fit in well with most Melodic Death Metal bands, and the keyboards wouldn't sound out of place on a STRATOVARIUS album, actually the keyboards wouldn't sound out of place on a DIABULUS IN MUSICA record. That's actually the most similar sound it has, the whole band may as well be DIABULUS IN MUSICA but without the operatic vocalist and the all-encompassing classical arrangements.

This is definitely not a cynical comparison at all. IN SOMNIA's debut record is pretty good, there's a high speed intensity to it, and the vocals maintain an aggression while not going overboard on the brutality. They do slow down at times, the title track has a majestic feel to it that carries throughout its seven minute length, but honestly the guitars and keys are the standout ingredient throughout the album, they're quick and technical and complement each other perfectly, like some fresh seafood and a fine white wine.

It's hard to pick out some standout tracks for two reasons; firstly, there aren't really any low points, although the opening track, "Kill Me While She Sleeps" didn't catch me in quite the same way as the rest of the album. Secondly, the band have a pretty rigid blueprint in general: Keep it fast, lots of guitars, lots of keyboards, maybe some more guitars and some drums that while perfectly fine, are there for rhythmic purposes only with no real flourishes.

All in all "Withered Frozen Perished" is a solid Melodeath record, very easy listening for fans of the genre and it won't disappoint. I'm already hooked on a few tracks, "Till Death Do Us Part" and "Asphyxia", to name a couple. No real surprises but a decent debut offering.