PARADISE LOST
'Faith Divides Us, Death Unites Us'
Century Media, 2009
Score: 8.5 / 10
By Xenia
To speak of PARADISE LOST is to mention one of the references of Death-Doom Metal. The British have been delighting us for almost 20 years in a musical career with ups and downs, evolutions, but, above all, compositional quality.
In his two previous albums, 'Paradise Lost' and 'In Requiem', we were able to verify the return to the roots, moving away from his more "industrial" albums, although retaining part of their gothic influences. Precisely the new album is a logical evolution of the previous one, yes, without as many “filler” songs as happened with 'In Requiem', only at the end of the album can we say something negative.
With a start like "As Horizons End" we remember the golden age of 'Draconian Times' and 'Icon'. The direct songs are back accompanied by superb guitars and the impressive voice of Mr. Holmes. In the same vein we have "The Rise of Denial", with the band's characteristic riffs at the beginning, and "Fraility", all with a much more metal sound than on previous albums, not suitable for those who suffer from torticollis. With “I Remain” we look back to the past, this time taking into account the semi-gothic era with catchy choruses, lots of melody and atmospheric parts. The album more or less follows a similar structure in which the roots are constantly present, with a very clear production, ideal for this type of music, but at the same time with an aggressive and dark sound.
"Faith Divides Us, Death Unites Us" breaks the rhythm of the album. It's a mid-tempo song with very dark, epic sounds and a heartbreaking chorus, one of the best songs on the album, if you can choose one.
Being one of the pioneers together with MY DYING BRIDE and ANATHEMA they couldn't forget their past and songs like “First Light”, “Living With Scars” and “Last Regret” are a good example of this, with a very heavy sound. Especially highlighting the latter, a jewel that makes anyone stand out.
The negative point mentioned above is found at the end of the album, with songs like “Universal Dream” and “In Truth” that, although they are good, only fill the album.
Many will want the group to return to its beginnings and publish unpublished works such as 'Draconian Times' but, let's face it, why go back to the past with such a perfect future? It is something unnecessary. With an album of the quality of 'Faith Divides Us, Death Unites Us' we can enjoy the present of PARADISE LOST without missing its past. Another great album to add to your collection.
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