Endless Conflict Theorem

Raventhrone

I really don't know where to begin and where to end with the latest release […]
By Chris Manouras
May 29, 2002
Raventhrone - Endless Conflict Theorem album cover

I really don't know where to begin and where to end with the latest release of the multidimensional epic/folk metal band called Raventhrone.

 One would consider remaining faithful to the specific track of folklore metal a major attainment, since most bands that started ensuing this path soon gave up on it and turned elsewhere, mainly because it was not profitable enough for them. Yet Raventhrone, after their first blasting album Malice in Wonderland, come back with a truly great hit, remaining loyal to their epic/folk metal norm.

Raventhrone is actually a project based on sole composer Ray Welsh who has taken on most of the instruments, while Mike Groeger appears as quest musician in the project (drums and other instruments).

Focalizing on their music, I can say that Endless Conflict Theorem combines everything; epic, power, death and even black metal melodies are intermingled, producing exceptional, multidirectional soundings.

The guitar passages are fierce and aggressive in some parts, but become more harmonious where it seems to be necessary, without losing the epic, warlike sentiment that is immanent in the album.

The vocals fluctuate between two dimensions; in some parts they are brutal-death-like (reminding of Crematory in some tracks -and especially track 4 in its entirety sounds like it was taken out from one of Crematory' s albums), still in others they are clean and plain, guided by the general intrinsic epic mood. The drums are speedy, but slow down when it is required.

 However what I consider to be the most essential factor for the particular sounding of the album is the use of the electronic keyboards that are perfectly combined with the other instruments. The keyboards, though less dominant than in the previous album, seem to be in command of many songs by bringing out the furthermost epic feelings the band wishes to transmit.

The lyrics seem to be inspired from stories about ancient kingdoms, warlords, battles, ancient gods and legends of the folklore.

Generally the whole album seems to be of fine workmanship musically and the production is great, providing excellent clarity of sound. On the other hand I believe that they could have picked a more innovative album cover since this one resembles the one IMMORTAL had for one of their many great albums (At the Heart of Winter).

 Besides that minor mischief the album is great and those who pay for it will certainly not be crying for their money! So grab your swords and join Raventhrone in their legendary battles against time!!!

8 / 10

Excellent

"Endless Conflict Theorem" Track-listing:

THE GARGOYLE
EATERS OF THE DEAD
AMONG WHISPERING WALLS
SOULSTORM
ENDLESS CONFLICT THEOREM
AN OATH IN SILENCE
DRAGON OF THE NIGHTSKY
A NIGHT AMONG THE RUINS OF BASRA
THE WAYFARERS SONG
DAWN DELIVERANCE
SERENADE OF THE DEAD (outro)

Raventhrone Lineup:

RAY WELSH - GUITARS, VOCALS...
MIKE GROEGER - DRUMS (also drummer of HOLLENTHON)

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