INSOMNIUM is one of the long-standing Melodic Death Metal bands in the genre. Formed in 1997 in Finland, the band have released nine full-length albums and their career is storied. “Songs of the Dusk” is their latest EP, and it has three songs. “Flowers in the Night” is first. Their signature sound is unmistakable….majestic leads, acoustic cleans…a powerful riff, and Niilo’s voice, and the song is both tender and momentous at the same time. The slow down with whispered vocals and subsequent key change reminds you of the band unparalleled songwriting abilities.

“Stained in Red” has another strong combination of heavy and aggressive regal tones with light, delicate melodies. Indeed, this formula is what defines the genre, and when the band wants it turn it up, they do. Dark clouds roll in, and thunder and lightning strike, and the lead guitar solo is fantastic. The lengthy title track closes the album, and those opening tones are gorgeous, almost like a parting of the skies as a sunbeam strikes warmth on your face. A heavy passage then rolls in with might and power. One thing you can count on is a slow down with delicate melodies…and this one is beautiful. The melody roars back at the end with command and even some clean vocal harmonies.

Dusk is a magical time. Unlike daytime or nighttime, which last for hours, dusk happens only for about 90 minutes. It is a reminder of the impermanence in life and the cyclical nature of existence. Although the album’s three songs seem to symbolize this, with the final track being the best, I still feel that the band is playing it too safe with this EP and their full-length before it. At this point in their career, fans are too used to what to expect from the band.