The legendary band with what I believe was their final full length album (not including re-releases), and the first release from OZ, clocking in at a tasteful fifty minutes. Melodic and heavy death metal, not unlike At the Gates (with a better vocalist), are what the later part of Cenotaph's career consisted of.

Cenotaph are masters at employing melody to create a triumphant feel. Their music sucks you into a depressing field of emotions, and the technical riffs keep you hooked for the entire run. Vocals are most verily spat out. They come from the throat and are screeched, which produces a lovely, grainy feel. The music contradicts this hateful feel as it's neither malicious nor entirely laid back. Rather, the drum/guitar combo is pure doom played at a fast, melodic pace. If Swedish bands could actually pull this off in masses, then that scene would hardly be a laughing stock. Instead, Cenotaph twist and fuck this music towards their own musical goals, and produce nothing less than a masterpiece.

© 1999 brand