Rough Edge: Dissection CD Reviews

DISSECTION

"Rebirth of Dissection" DVD (Escapi / Black Horizon; 2006)

It is all too easy for anyone to say that “The Somberlain” and “Storm of the Light’s Bane” are black metal classics. However, when I had heard that Dissection mainman Jon Nodtveidt had committed suicide shortly after the release of the DVD “Rebirth of Dissection,” I knew that “The Somberlain” and “Storm of the Light’s Bane” would gain even more stature in the band’s catalog and the black metal genre.

“Rebirth of Dissection” is a live documentary of Dissection from a sold-out show in Stockholm, Sweden in October 2004. Dissection only had two full-length albums and various EPs to draw from for the set list – accordingly, this live concert draws heavily from the “The Somberlain” and “Storm of the Light’s Bane.” And the band’s fans and fans of the black metal genre will appreciate that.

Only one band original track, “Maha Kali” (which was to eventually appear on the band’s last official release “Reinkaos”) was included in this concert documentary – the song, although strong, seems a bit out of place and given that there is nearly ten year separation between that track and the majority of the band’s catalog this shouldn’t be too much of a surprise. Dissection cover Tormentor’s “Elizabeth Bathori” towards the end of the show for a breathtaking stylistic change of pace.

The performances are spirited full of vigor. The performances are tight – but this is perhaps due to a backing “click” track to synchronize backing tapes of keyboards and choir vocals. Overall, the sound is great and balanced with enough of the crowd to know that this is a live documentary. There are enough cameras and camera angles to keep the video interesting for viewing. The lighting is simple – focusing primarily on singular bursts of color illuminating the backdrops – but very effective. Now this was probably by design especially in light of filming a concert for a DVD, but I think it has a much greater impact on allowing Dissection’s music to always be at the forefront of the performance.

The simple, stark, and memorable music video for the track “Starless Aeon” from “Reinkaos” is included as an extra. Other extras include an informative and honest twenty-five minute interview with Jon Nodtveidt and a photogallery.

As a live document “Rebirth of Dissection” is a testament to the beliefs of Jon Nodtveidt and the power of those beliefs in the form of music. But I’m just as happy as to listen to the DVD as though it were a CD of the band’s particular concert that evening.

For more information visit http://www.dissection.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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