SKY VOID OF STARS

Katatonia is a band that consistently underwhelms. Despite a strong vocalist and a truly unique sonic palette, Katatonia albums always felt like dragged out snooze fests. Katatonia often forgoes riff-driven metal for a more intimate and layered sound. Riffs make their appearance to be sure but they're second to the atmosphere and mood generated by the layered guitar and synth work. On paper, this is an approach I absolutely should adore. But somehow, the records seem to fall flat and meander. Despite this, I still make the time to listen to their new releases in the hope that the band will release something that is both true to their genuinely unique sound but also has a pulse.

Sky Void of Stars is an album that still falls short of my expectations for the group but, nevertheless, was still the most enjoyable experience I've had listening to one of this group's records. There are several memorable hooks and riffs that buoy the melancholic atmosphere and prevent the record from descending into the melancholic meandering drudgery I am used to.