Doom metal legends ISOLE probably don't need an introduction but, hey, it is my job to provide some background so here it goes. ISOLE are a Swedish doom metal band who formed waaaaaay back in 1991 as FORLORN. Under that banner they released six demos and, later, a compilation. In 2004, they changed their name to ISOLE and from there it all began. "Anesidora," is their eight full length album....and a bit of a departure of their tried true sound. Please don't misunderstand that. The band hasn't suddenly put out a gangster gothic techno rap album. This is still doom. This is still ISOLE. But they take a more melodic path on this one, with less focus on riffs and more focus on atmosphere and mood. There isn't anything wrong with that, and, at times, I find that preferable. With that being said, there are still plenty of big riffs but they just aren't on display as much as they have been. Daniel Bryntse's vocals also seem to be fighting the atmosphere for center of attention, which if I'm being honest, is somewhat odd.

Daniel is a stellar musician and songwriter but his vocals are, and always have been, firmly under the category of "capable." He does sound better than ever on this album but I still can't imagine anyone ever saying, "Daniel is one of the best vocalists of all time." I mean no offense in that but vocals have never really been the point of ISOLE so it is just weird to see an album so focused on them. The production is crystal clear and considering the songs trending towards a more atmospheric approach, I find that it works great in letting the sound flow freely, especially in some of the longer passages.

The album opens with "The Songs Of The Whales," which is also the first single. A great decision  because if you like this song, you'll probably like the album as a whole. It has an epic feel and balances heavy riffs with the melodic blanket of atmosphere that will permeate throughout the rest of the album. The vocals glide along with a catchy cadence, almost like a sea shanty. The guitars weave beautiful yet sad melodies and harmonies that almost take up a life of their own. The bass and drums, especially in the later half, hold down a strong, heavy foundation that reminds us all of ISOLE's ability to crush. "Monotonic Scream," is a more direct song, with the heavy distortion smacking right into the face from the very first seconds. This is slow, lumbering, and an excellent addition to the ever growing collection of ISOLE songs. A veil of mystery and hints of danger hover around the song, adding to the excitement.

"In Abundance," reminds me of "Monotonic Scream," because of the immediacy of the opening moments but this one adds in a much more depressing melody and sounds more immersive. The bass slaps hard too. Throw in a soaring chorus with excellent vocal harmonies and what we have here is another well rounded track that will find its place among fans quickly. The final track, "Vanity," is, much like the opener, a great overview of what ISOLE wanted to achieve with this album. This particular track provides a heavy backdrop against Gothic style guitar tones. During the song's melodic singing, funeral style keys and chopping riffs keep the song firmly planted in depressed waters. A personal favorite song on this album, for me.

All in all, ISOLE stretch their doomed wings a bit and fly a little higher. It may be a change but it isn't stark enough to throw old fans for a loop but it is enough to gain the attention of anyone who maybe didn't care for them before. It's too early to tell where it fits into the hierarchy of their discography but I think it will have more than enough longevity to fight that battle.