KALLOCAIN

Now here is an album you simply must hear...PAATOS' "Kallocain" is an impressive piece of Scandinavian - progressive music with a blend of multi - genres all culminating into one of my favourite albums of 2004. In many ways PAATOS actually reminds a bit of Finalnd's "WHITE WILLOW" with aspects of SIGUR ROS, PORTISHEAD, ANEKDOTEN, LANDBERK and ANGLAGAARD tossed in. Behind their veil of pastel soundscapes and ambient-like musical tones rests a rich yet dark and slightly aggressive wall of music, which always stays in control. The mood of the album ebbs and flows and although is a quieter album overall, does have some dynamic interlude bursts. Instrumentally this band have it all with excellent musicianship and they carry a very tight, yet relaxed feel. Lead vocalist Petronella Nettermalm's voice is rich and slightly raw a fits the music to perfection without sounding dominant or obtrusive. She has that certain quality that I just love and think her vocal personality really come thru with a spark. "Kallocain" was mixed by Steve Wilson of PORCUPINE TREE. A scrumptious album that you will need to hunt down.