Life Eternal
Dark The Suns
What's up, Gothic Metal maniacs? I'm here once again to give you an insight on DARK THE SUNS' new compilation release: "Life Eternal".
Released via Inverse Records comes this Gothic inspired Metal band that typically have the atmospheric feel as one; as you'd expect, but also keeping that genre's inner darkness mood intact while combining melody to near perfection.
Hailing from Finland: DARK THE SUNS have released 3 full-length albums prior to this compilation "Life Eternal", I guess it's about time that they release one for newcomers at least, right? On vocals & guitar - Mikko Ojala formed DARK THE SUNS as a one-man solo project; releasing the first demo independently. Eventually, forming a full band for future purposes and Live events. In 2013 however; the band made an official announcement that they were splitting up - never say never, as they have returned to release this here compilation collection.
Mikko Ojala incorporates fantastic growling vocals as if it was a Black or Death Metal band. Surprised to see Inka Ojala on bass who creates a pumping but powerful sound as well as Juha Kokkonen on additional guitars and Mikael Saalasti on drums blasts a powerful duo of epic proportions.
The songs are equally just as fabulous. "The Sleeping Beauty" and "Sleeping Angels" begin the compilation and are almost entirely similar with the help of the Gothic, atmospheric nature this band provide. As well as the additional sounds of Eliisa Vainio on keyboards and vocals to give you that Gothic melodic feel. This is already a band that I personally feel has the musical integrity of gods.
Evidently, this is noted in "All Ends In Silence" - which combines the brutality of this band's epic musicianship and great length at detail; giving you that "feel" of Gothic impression.
Still able to enjoy myself and headbang; I begin to notice the reason behind this music... To indulge you in on a fantastic, musical journey. "The Dead End" and "Alone" additionally include female vocals credited to the awesome Eliisa Vainio (also on additional keyboards), who typically focuses all her vocal strength into a beautiful, enjoyable and talented work of art. "Walking With An Angel" continues this influence with groovy precision. DARK THE SUNS is definitely a band to note. Putting my focus into this particular song; I jammed hard, headbanging enjoyably.
Nearing the end of the album; which mind you feels a tad similar, but "Unbroken Silence" and "Reflections" pump out some glares of atmospheric steel with returning vocals from Eliisa Vainio who just continues to surprise me with the power of her voice and vocal skill - utter brilliance.
With similar implementations in "Don't Fear The Sleep" and the almighty "Rimed With Forest". I can only give positive props to DARK THE SUNS. I thoroughly enjoyed this 45 minute long compilation that probably wouldn't be a worthy purchase for veterans; but for newcomers, most definitely should give "Life Eternal" a try. It's almost masterful and if you're a fan of all things Gothic - this will be right up your alley.
9 / 10
Almost Perfect
"Life Eternal" Track-listing:
1. The Sleeping Beauty
2. Sleepless Angels
3. All Ends In Silence
4. The Dead End
5. Alone
6. Walking With An Angel
7. Unbroken Silence
8. Reflections
9. Don't Fear The Sleep
10. Rimed With Forest
Dark The Suns Lineup:
Mikko Ojala - Vocals, Guitar
Inka Ojala - Bass
Juha Kokkonen - Guitar
Mikael Saalasti - Drums
Eliisa Vainio - Additional Female Vocals
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