They call it 'modern Metal' and I'm not going to differ with them. The Swedish metallers ENGEL from Gothenburg, including the masterminds Niklas Engelin (GARDENIAN, PASSENGER, IN FLAMES) and Marcus Sunesson (THE CROWN, THE HAUNTED) are back with their second effort, "Threnody", after "Absolute Design" of 2007 and the only thing you have to do is to prepare yourselves for some blow-minding and pure, melodic death Metal which seems that returned to its birthplace, Sweden. Alright, we know what to expect in guitars, you are going to think, but what happens with the growls?

Magnus Klavborn is the big surprise in this brilliant album and his vocal ability to adjust his voice according to every track's demands. From the aggressive opener "Six Feet Deep" and the solid and harsh "Down" till the emotional "To The End" and the melodic and IN FLAMES-ish "Every Sin (Leaves A Mark)", Magnus reaches the impossible (!) and presents a stunning range from growls to the more clear vocals. Through the 11 compositions of "Threnody" you'll find hard, rhythmical techniques and atmospheric guitar work in a way we are used to by such kind of bands, combining with skills and brutality, interfused with classic Metal influences and new-school charateristics. Just notice the intro riff of the self-titled track and you are going to understand exactly my saying.

In the beginning of 2010, we have been hit by another super-group from the Scandinavian peninsula: BARREN EARTH from Finland and the amazing "Curse Of The Red River". The Iceland volcano has just been awakened again and the year closes so wonderful, under the 'unruly' melodies of ENGEL and our beloved "Threnody". Well, here I have to say that I enjoy pretty much the most of the album, except the slower moments which have a lot of the 'soppy' and not-my-type LINKIN PARK attitude. I'd prefer to remain more to the entire IN FLAME-ish roots that we all love and support. By the way, what the hell are IN FLAMES doing so long?