Rough Edge: Tyranny CD Reviews

TYRANNY

"Bleak Vistae" (Firebox; 2004)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Tyranny is a funereal doom/death metal band from Finland that is yet another fantastic find by the upstart Firebox label. Tyranny's "Bleak Vistae" is about the most oppressive doom metal I've ever heard – and that's saying something.

"Bleak Vistae" is properly classified as a mini-CD as it features three songs – however, these three tracks average about 15 minutes in length. The true test of a doom/death CD is always found in how long can you keep the listener's interest. While it does take a few spins of "Bleak Vistae" for the nuances of this mini-CD sink in, it is a fairly rewarding CD.

The third and final track, "Drown," is probably my favorite of the three tracks on "Bleak Vistae." "Drown" has a bit more melody and atmosphere, no doubt due to the greater emphasis of the keyboards, that make it stand out. While all of the three tracks on "Bleak Vistae" have an epic feel to them, "Drown" actually makes you believe you are on a sonic journey with the band as your trusty guides.

Tyranny needs to do a better job of making each song stand out. My chief complaint is that the three tracks begin in pretty much the same manner. The funeral doom/death style may be a bit narrow and limiting, but that's no excuse for Tyranny relying on the same pattern for all of its songs.

Don't let the two and a half chainsaws fool you – this is a quality release. Firebox can be proud of the fact that they've found yet another band worth hearing.

"Bleak Vista" was produced by Tyranny.

Tyranny is M. Makela and L. Lindqvist.

For more information visit http://www.firebox.fi/records/bands_tyranny.html.

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.

Back to CD Reviews Home

Back to RoughEdge.com Home