AFTER FOREVER

The final release by After Forever is perhaps the least distinctive in their catalogue. Almost gone are brutal death and blac metal vocals and composition parts that balanced female clean vocals. The songs are also most accessible. What is also true is that the group had simplified the songwriting on the last two albums. There are still enough progressive influences to be found and the music craftmanship is indisputable. Melodies are well thought out and vocals delicious. The longest track is epic and consists of several parts - it belongs to the highlights of the album and showcases mellow but also fast playing as well as even subtle electronica influence in one part. What I miss on this album is the dynamism of their earlier releases and unique brutal music takes. Recommended to fans of symphonic metal with female vocals. Although the album has the highest rating for After Forever, I doubt that this is their best album.