bartosso
Masterpiece of modern depressive metal
Katatonia is like wine, the older, the better. Having said that I appreciate the fact that their latest release, NIGHT IS THE NEW DAY contravene this theory. But when I listened to this record for the first time, five years ago, it was their newest child and, undoubtedly, a depressive metal triumph.
I would gladly rate this record with full 5 stars. That's one of the most musically consistent works in depressive rock, one of the best produced metal releases of the decade and one of my favourite albums. The very core of this release are dark and depressive feelings which find an outlet in every single composition in the album. Both massive metal riffs and haunting melodies are dripping with genuine emotions, so beautifully expressed by Jonas Renkse with his unique, gentle voice. The band manages, with equally good effect, to create both beautiful, haunting melodies(e.g."July", "In The White") and extremely dark, massive and discordant sounds with progressive approach(e.g."Leaders", "The Itch"). I'm also full of praise for the drummer who really deserves a separate commendation. I love the way he plays in this album. This guy manages to create fantastic drum patterns which, while being relatively understated, are really powerful and quite progressive. But most of all his playing somehow matches the concept perfectly... as everything here actually.
However, among fantastic, sophisticated melodies there are also some minor dissonances which take points away. The first objection I have on that matter is "My Twin". While verse is fantastic and emotional, the chorus is somewhat trite. For the same reason I don't like intro and chorus of "Deliberation" and intro of "Consternation". It's just... sad that among such great melodies there are a few run-of-the-mill ones.
Apart from that I actually don't have anything else to complain about. This is classic already. Haunting, mature, consistent release, recommended to all fans of well-composed, atmospheric and genuinely emotional metal.
TRACKS BY RATINGS: 10/10: Soil's Song; July; In the White 9/10: Leaders; Follower; Rusted; Increase; The Itch; Journey Through Pressure 8/10: My Twin; Consternation 7/10: Deliberation