The Slow Deathare an exceptional band that straddles the emotive as well as heavier aspect of atmospheric death/doom metal. There are eerie, haunting female vocals alternated with abysmally low growls to go with similarly undulating music, encompassing a terrific range of heart-rending expression. Members of veteran bands such asIllimitable Dolor,Horrisonous, ex-Mournful Congregationensure that the music remains engaging, even during the sparser, atmospheric parts, which invariably give way to soul-piercing solos or dread-inducing chugging parts. This is a staggering interpretation of the double-edged style with everything remaining all too palpable, as it hurtles you through a harrowing, emotional roller-coaster ride through four epochal tracks averaging over 15 minutes, at the end of which you'll emerge cleansed, purged, feeling exhausted but somehow lighter. It's a microcosm of the events that are bound to unfold in everyone's life, andThe Slow Deathcouldn't express the inevitable moments of grief and triumph any better through their emotionally-charged music. Six years in the making, 'Siege' is sure to be remembered as one of the best albums in the style.

Artworks by Mandy Andresen