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SOMNUS
"Through
Creation's End" (Root of All Evil Records; 2002)
Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter
Underground metal veterans Somnus play a blackened style of death metal with many atmospheric elements, gothic touches, and a flair for the dramatic. "Through Creation's End" wraps it all into one big package that will make you think they're from the European metal scene as opposed to Cleveland, Ohio. My first memory of Somnus involves their appearance at the 2000 March Metal Meltdown in New Jersey. Although my recollection seems to suggest a more doom style in nature I'll simply chalk up the band's somber style as a link to an impression of a more doom-laden style.
It seemed like forever for Somnus' latest effort, "Through Creation's End," to make it to me, but patience is often rewarded with good things. "Through Creation's End" requires at least three devoted listens to fully appreciate it. There may be a few folks who would be too quick to dismiss easy
After my first listen of "Through Creation's End" I could say that I was listening to a mix of Cradle Of Filth mixed with the mystical, atmospheric elements of Garden Of Shadows and a little Covenant thrown in for good measure.
The lead guitar serves as much as an integral piece of the overall musical direction as it does as a spotlight on the lead skills of guitarist Dennis Downey. Rhiannon's keyboards play a prominent role in Somnus' depressive, atmospheric sound. Rhiannon's backing vocals add an important element to the band's expansive style and sound. Vocalist Scott Hilberg uses a wide variety of blackened screams, deathly growls, and foreboding spoken word pieces to give every nook and cranny of "Through Creation's End" a spooky feel throughout.
"Through Creation's End" is an impressive effort - I'll be playing this one often.
Somnus are Scott Hilberg on vocals and guitar, Dennis Downey on lead guitar, Steve Rolf on bass, Rhiannon on keyboards and vocals, and Chris Stolle on drums.
For more information visit http://www.somnusmusic.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.
Copyright © 2003 by R.
Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
Revised:
17 May 2021 21:46:23 -0400 .
