The Swedish neo Death Metal key-holders Dark Tranquillity continue their sonic assault with pride, dignity, style and of course the marriage of classic Death Metal elements with new technique and sound approach towards to contemporary music. One of the most interesting things about Dark Tranquillity is that they deal - mostly lyrically - with subjects and ideas other bands would get burnt if they tried to deal with.
These matters and issues mostly refer to science, life, a huge majority of feelings, mythology, the future and other interesting stuff!
From the first track of the album their assault is unleashed with full might. They really manage to excellently combine elements of anger and frantic feelings with very melodic phrases (mostly key-driven). The truth though is that maybe some 'old school' freaks may find it hard to accept those elements. On the whole, Character manages to sound more fierce than its predecessors.
I admit that I have misunderstood and underestimated them in the past! They manage to sound very fresh and eager to conquer a significant part in the Metal scene. The music is very well played and the production's very good too. There is a slight shortage of lead guitar parts, I suppose, but this is balanced by the addition of many keys and samples all over the CD.
Their unique style comprising mostly of many guitar riffs, melody and aggression is also found here. However the untrained ear will have to give more than 2 - 3 listening attempts before it decides whether Dark Tranquillity really fit for him/her or not. The songs will definitely work perfectly when performed live.
There are only a few really uncool tracks (regarding the genre) here. If somebody wants to pinpoint and focuss on some of them he would choose the following: Through Smudged Lenses, Out of Nothing,  The Endless Feed,  One Thought, Dry Run and Senses Tied.
It is also important to notice that the artwork has been done by guitarist Niklas Sundin who has also worked with other bands such as Arch Enemy and Sentenced for example. Dark Tranquillity still manage to lead the way for the so called 'Gothenburg Sound'. What is more important though is the question whether you really find interest in this way of songwriting and musical approach in general. My opinion lies somewhere in the middle. There are plans for a U.S. tour in 2005 with Soilwork, Hypocrisy and Mnemic.
Is Dark Tranquillity the thinking man's Death Metal band just like Queensryche is? Time will show (or has it already shown)!  We hope to catch them again at some show, soon enough! Until then let's hope that serenity, tranquility and peace will find a place in our hearts and minds!