The so called 'Gothic Metal' label is just a form of some writers to describe Metal bands (in general, Doom Metal bands) in many genres that have a heavy load of influences from Post-Punk, Indie Rock, Pop Rock and even Gothic Rock. But the label isn't enough to describe the ample range of possible sonorities to be explored by the bands. But there are those who try something different, as the German quintet LUNAR SHADOW, as can be heard clearly on "Wish to Leave".

As I could read on sources, the band worked on a Black/Power metal mix before, so the fans must be aware that the content of this album isn't like that: here, the listeners will find a blend between a form of traditional Heavy Metal with nuances of Post-Rock and Indie Rock, something aesthetically elegant and melancholic deep. But's truly very good, a form of music created by contrasts of melodic strong parts with the melancholy and elegance similar of what MOONSPELL uses on its works (but these words aren't point to similarities between the two bands, please). Their work is very good and speaks for itself.

The sound engineer and producer Max Herrmann worked with them on the studio, and the mastering is signed by V. Santura (the same one from TRIPTYKON and DARK FORTRESS). Their creation is something that keeps a crude feeling, but in a way that is clean and understandable for anyone, with defined raw instrumental tunes (what improves the understanding of the melancholic arrangements). It's not what the band's music deserves, but it's very good.

"Wish to Leave" is a remarkable piece of music, indeed, and it's not fair to say that it has best moments. But for a first time, the blend of Indie Rock/Post-Punk influences with Heavy Metal heard on "Serpents Die" (many elegant and introspective moments are filled with charming guitars and bass guitar arrangements), "Delomelanicon" (a strong influence of NWOBHM is mixed with the melancholic aesthetics of Post-Punk, with a fine work from the vocals), the 'noir' ambience of "To Dusk and I Love You" (on its beginning, that Bluesy/Jazz feeling can be heard, and the rhythmic changes guided by drums are really excellent), and the contrasts of "The Darkness Between the Stars" (where the old traditional Heavy Metal are clearer, along with some aggressive moments, along with very good oppressive ambiences) are indicated for a first time on the album.

Maybe "Wish to Leave" is a turning point in their career, and the old fans can be depressed due this change. But those who are far from being restrained by label and names will embrace this new phase of LUNAR SHADOW's music.