LIGHT OF DAY, DAY OF DARKNESS

It seems like GREEN CARNATION had enough musical ideas to compose an epic prog-metal track spanning 40 mins. However, 40 mins tracks have been done before, and in an attempt to create something special they decided to extend their work an extra 20 mins to create an epic of epic proportions. The novelty of having a hour long track really hurts the quality of the album. I may be wrong with my conjecture, but judging by the music, I seem spot on.

Musically the album carries a very monotonous feel. The music develops slowly, yet thoroughly through the whole piece, but it happens at such a gradual rate that at times the piece can become overwhelming. The robotic vocals do little to fix this problem; they are repeated in the same emotionless, drone like voice throughout the album. If this doesn't wear you down, the hour long bombardment of depression will have the perkiest of prog-heads on the verge of suicide.

The best example of the pointless extension of the album comes around the halfway mark. The metal onslaught gives way to symphonic, eastern influenced atmospheres, and an angelic female voice cuts in to deliver chants to the audience. This interlude isn't necessarily as bad as it is pointless.

Now, all criticism aside Light of Day, Day of Darkness has some truly great moments. The drumming varies throughout the entire piece, propelling it forward while staying fresh the entire time. The vocal harmonies are fantastic with the backing Operatic choir and children's choir, and the combination of slide, acoustic, and electric guitars add a heft dose of flavor to the metal riffs.

LoDDoD overreaches its abilities. If all fat were trimmed this could be an excellent 30-40 min track, but while the idea of an hour long track does tickle all of our esoteric bones, practically it doesn't work out.