Replacing all but the rhythm section might spell disaster for any band, especially a symphonic one. Finland’s Alghazanth has weathered more than its share of lineup changes and they take this one in stride as well. When a new Alghazanth disc comes out it is a safe bet as to the style and tone. Slow to mid paced compositions with melodic guitars and understated keyboards that are integral to the music but never over the top bombastic. This band always seems to have a story to immerse the listener into. Most bands simply scream the story at you over the top of the music, Alghazanth uses the flow of the music to aid in the telling, creating musically enhanced mental images, a successful attempt to fit the music to the words.

I have been with this band since their beginning and the same thing happens every time. In the moment, listening to a new disc, the response is this is good, nice flow, interesting compositions, etc. Then I put it away and do not think of the band again until the next release and the response is oh yea, Alghazanth, they are pretty good, and the scenario repeats itself.

They need to get out of the cycle of well-crafted albums with no staying power. When I go back and listen to the back catalog I still like them as well, I just never think to play them. Does new vocalist Goat Tormentor (Mikka from Funeris Nocturnum), new lead guitarist Grimort (moved over from bass) and new keyboardist Ekholm (Soulfallen) add the necessary ingredients? Melodic leads are more likely to come from the guitars now or to work seamlessly together with the keys like the ending of “The Kings to Come.” They make up for lack of harshness with skill and craftsmanship. They are all quality compositions on this album. They take themselves seriously and it shows. I had come to expect the sparing use of clean vocals but now it is spoken word on “Future Made Flesh” instead of cleanly sung. On Typhoon Unmasked keyboards were the main instrument, it has been toned down incrementally from there. Before that Subliminal Antenora introduced harsher vocals and more potent drumming. “Moving Mountains” utilizes plenty of blastbeats to try to wrench control; away from the melodic lines and the slow passages are now using harsh vocals instead of clean.

Once again an excellent showing, highlighting their fine musicianship and dedication. I’ll let you know in a few years if this one has staying power, or better yet give it a try yourself. One other relevant piece of evidence is the list of bands inviting them to play. Gorgoroth, Horna, Mortuary Drape, Secrets of the Moon in recent times. That speaks volumes.

[Visit the band's website]

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