THE SILENT ENIGMA

Anathema very slowly progressing to prog! Not only is the first awkward vocalist gone but the growls of Cavanaugh are a bit more bearable - it is more screaming than growling which suits his vocal better. Musically, the band has improved on all fronts: drums, interplay between guitars and keys, memorable instrumental passages. Even as a doom metal fan, I can say that this release won't be lost when compared to other true doom-metal outfits like My Dying Bride. The riffs and melodies are bleak, nevertheless, they have their quality and moment.

The first songs kicks off the anger and despair with grandiosity and gradual tension. "Shroud of Frost" has a pretty good dark instrumental part resulting in strings and guitars duet in the end. "Alone" is a delicate acoustic number sung by female vocals and a welcome break from dark gloomy tones. "Sunset of the Age" marks more experimental doom metal. "Noctural Emission" seems to be going in more directions that are compatible - slow doom and quick rock pattern. "The silent enigma" is a good doom metal song marred by the weeping vocal that does not suit the music at all. "A dying wish" is on par with the first track - a well developed doom-metal song with multiple parts and tempo changes. This will appeal to many doom metal fans. The dramatic last track "Black orchid" proves the talent of the band which was not yet evident on the first release.

This is the last growling album and sunrise will slowly come on the next band's releases that will start discovering new sonic soundscapes. A three star album but only two stars for this webpage as there's still too little for a progressive listener to find.