Very similar to 'Black Vanity', but with a markedly improved production. The songs are also played out in a similar style, although they weren't quite as catchy here. This is also the first signal we have that Lodmalm and crew are taking their doom rock into a more gothic approach. Of course, later Lodmalm would rename the group after this very album and progress into a goth rock outfit. "Closer to the Pain", "Last Transmission", and "New Dawn Coming" are all worthy additions to the Cemetary repertoire, but the most notable song for me on this album was "Ophidian" with an inspiring melodic rock break and some solid vocals in the softer verse sections. This album sounds a lot less similar to Paradise Lost than its predecessor, and although I'd recommend 'Black Vanity' over this it's probably a good 2nd choice.

© 2000 pizarro