Late one night something caught my attention: a printed name on a page, one that brings to mind death and beauty. That name is Grave Flowers. Despite a slow beginning when Incarcerated Sorrows started, it is a fine album, complete with guitar solos and lovely keyboard-work. Grave Flowers have been working hard since the band's conception and their dark, Amorphis influenced tunes can now be heard courtesy of Firebox Records.
Grave Flowers began as an idea and a song but did not grow until 1995 when the first Demo was recorded. It recieved some nice reviews and eventually contributed some of its songs to compilations. They did the same thing in 1997 but did not release a full album until 2000 (Solace Me) which they re-released that year as a limited edition picture LP. Their latest Demo came out as of 2003. One year later they were signed to Firebox Records for a two record deal.
Grave Flowers is a lovely mix of dark progressive music, like a musical thunderstorm. Their dirge-like melodies pull you along on a current of infectious misery. The guitars and keyboard stand out the most, with the guitar clean and clear at times and deep and crunchy at others. They have full, emotional solos and don't overdo it. The singer is okay and stays within the middle range, although his voice is a little nasal for my tastes. Nevertheless, he could be a little louder in the mix.
The first couple of songs are somewhat lackluster compared to the rest on Incarcerated Sorrows. Your Memory Lives On has the best keyboards on the record. It is a love song and very sad and slow. Sleep Demon Sleep is heavy, catchy and has a good sense of groove. Another one of my favorites is Cold Despair. There's some great keyboards on that track.
Grave Flowers write music perfect for brooding. Unfortunately the first few songs are filler, but as soon as Fear of Future comes on, you know you're in for a good ride. There are enough solid tunes on here to make the record worth owning and it will certainly take up its share of time in my CD player.