PALE FOLKLORE

Agalloch's debut album, after their promising EP "From Which Of This Oak", isn't as good as I thought. It is though at the same level as the first EP, and there are some moments here where the band shines.

It is more a Doom Metal album, rather than Folk, Progressive, or whatever the band has been previously labeled. An alarmed, bleak atmosphere reigns supreme, a mysterious chill covers all eight songs, some of them are amazing, some not as good: "As Embers Dress The Sky" is one of the band's best songs, which was also included in the previous EP of the band, "From Which Of This Oak". "She Painted Fire Across The Skyline" is another highlight: composed by three songs, some moments are unforgettable, some are a little weak, but still the magic is never gone. "Dead Winter Days" has a haunting, chilling melody, great performance by singer John Haughm.

However, the album has it's defects: "The Melancholy Spirit" is a little too long, with some quite avoidable moments, just like the other epic song, "Hallways Of Enchanted Ebony".

But, I ,must admit, it's quite an interesting and courageous debut, that has some brilliant and promising songs.