CRIMSON

Since I only reach the big 100 once, I wanted to make sure I reviewed a special album. I put a lot of thought as to what I would review right now, but I've decided on "Crimson" by Edge of Sanity. What better album to review than a classic 40-minute progressive death metal epic?

This was my introduction to this excellent Swedish band, and this is their Magnum Opus for sure. If someone new to the progressive metal genre were to ask me for three essential progressive death metal albums I would say "Still Life" by Opeth, "Symbolic" by Death, and "Crimson" by Edge of Sanity. Sure there are plenty of albums out there that are of equal quality to these three masterpieces, but those three define the genre.

Of course, you noticed that this album is in my top three progressive death metal albums EVER released. That is quite the accomplishment, and shows how great this album really is!

So what is the music like?

Well, it is pretty heavy. Dan Swanö growls most of the time, it has the occasional blast-beat drumming, but also has some beautiful passages with Dan's unique singing voice. Mikael Akerfeldt of Opeth fame is also present on this album, and you can easily identify his growl over Dan Swanö's. The is also filled with instrumental sections, all of which flow very well. The production of this album is very good, and is one of the better productions of the 90's.

As with most 40-minute songs, there is a set of repeating themes, and they are all used perfectly. Most of the musical themes are very dark and heavy, though there are some more mellow and emotional ones as well. Most of this album is dark musically, but it is very dark lyrically as well. It tells a science fiction story of when human civilization is no longer able to reproduce, and is coming to an end. I won't get into to much detail, just because when you experience the story for the first time it is incredible! It is a very deep story that is easily in my top 10 stories ever told in music. Read the lyrics, and you will know what I mean.

Is it prog?

Of course! Symphonic prog fans might actually like this album if they can get past the growled vocals. It contains a great variety of moods, and never does it disappoint. It takes a few listens to take all 40 minutes in, and understand them, but once you do, you'll realize how great this album is.

Few bands can pull of a 40 minute song. Most bands don't even bother trying! Even the bands that do try rarely succeed, and Edge of Sanity is a band that pulls it off with ease. This is a masterpiece that is essential in any prog metal collection! If you're just into Yes, Genesis, ELP, and King Crimson you might also be in for a pleasant surprise with this masterpiece.

5 stars.

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