In Solitude
« Sister »
Metal Blade Records
2013
2011 saw Sweden’s, In Solitude, really come into their own with “The World. The Flesh. The Devil.” not to mention a successful tour alongside country brothers, Watain. Fans have eagerly anticipated the release of “Sister” with ample enthusiasm. Here In Solitude continue their pension for Heavy Metal based ideas but have expanded their musical lexicon to include much more on “Sister”.
Beginning with album opener, “He Comes”, the Swedes set an ominous mood with soft acoustic guitar strumming/plucking to elevate the tension that is at the core of the album. “Death Knows Where”, displays head bobbing verses followed by an infectious chorus that’s sure to please the “die hards” live. What is interesting is that there seems to be a strong Heavy Metal presence, but also an underlying influence of 1980’s Alternative Rock! Songs on “Sister” gravitate slightly from Mercyful Fate –isms to heavier versions of The Mission or Depeche Mode. “A Buried Sun” exemplifies this both in its plodding nature and in Pelle Ahman’s vocal delivery. Anguished and tortured, the vocals dispel any notion of hope or levity.
In addition, Jarboe Living makes a special quest vocal appearance on “Horses in the Ground”, with a chilling whisper to accompany the tune’s frantic pace, while on “Pallid Hands”, the band display an affinity for early 1980’s New Wave before plunging headlong into traditional Heavy Metal bravado. Being apt to unpredictability, “Inmost Nigredo” closes the album with a dark, doom leaning crunch, perfect for head banging and raising the Horns!
Production wise, “Sister’s” sound is not overly pristine or digital. There’s a slight muffled quality that comes across only to add to the band’s fervent passion for the “old days”. The recording allows the instruments to breathe and open up space. The album isn’t a wall of sound but does permit keyboards to creep through and add to the prophetic stress heard on “Lavender”.
Three albums in since their inception in 2005, In Solitude have once again proven why they are relevant today in “Sister”. Though it may not win “album of the year”, the album is an interesting enough listen to hear while sharing a beer with friends. The occult, magic and dismal mystery will capture the imagination of fans as songs are marred in traditional Metal but with characteristics not usually acquainted with The Dark One. This could be a step towards a new direction….we’ll see.
Standout Tracks: “Death Knows Where”, “Pallid Hands”, “Sister”
8.5/10
