Album brings signature sound

English doom metal band Paradise Lost are back louder and darker than ever with their album Obsidian. The composition on this record is wonderful; the instrumentation blends in with the theme on the record. Each guitar note, drum beat and vocal pitch is spot on with clear and concise musical transitions. Obsidian does have satisfying and thrashing music. 

Heart-stopping “Hear The Night” is a blazing tune due to how Gregor Mackintosh’s and Aaron Aedy’s guitar playing shakes the atmosphere. In the beginning, both guitarists emerge from the loud background with ear-bleeding vibrations and the technique both guitarists have contributes to the madness on this piece. Guitars are a huge part of any kind of music genre and it is a lot of work for talented musicians such as Mackintosh and Aedy to craft their skills. If people have the need to hear eye-opening guitar talent, “Hear The Night” will blow their minds.

“Fall From Grace” is a powerful song loaded with vocals by Nick Holmes. While listening, it is amusing how Holmes’s vocals change from grungy to harmonic while each guitar changes its vibe throughout the production. The emotional feeling of authority and control can be felt when Holmes’s shrieks rage havoc through the musical structure. It is enjoyable to hear a voice that can adapt to a music pattern that constantly remains upbeat on a track. 

Thrilling “Ending Days” shows a different side of the band because of the drum playing by Waltteri Vayrynen. While the lyrics scream through the speakers, the loud battering from the drum sticks provides a feeling of clarity and energy while Vayrynen expresses himself through the whole number. Also, his drumming holds the band together by keeping the flow swift and steady with a kick of swagger. The drums are the magical component on “Ending Days.”

“Defiler” is satisfying and shows how talented Obsidian is through each music element. Mackintosh’s and Aedy’s guitar playing is solid and cutting edge with a dash of untamed talent, Stephen Edmondson bass guitar shreds the background with quality rumbles, Vayrynen’s drum playing ignites vibrant classiness and Holmes’s vocals are intimidating with a touch of solitude and vengeance. When the band performs these elements, the noises collide into each other to create wild chimes. “Defiler” does signify how Paradise Lost is becoming a stronger band.

The darkest tune on Obsidian is “Ravenghast” and the reason why it is how the piano playing and vocals bring the feeling of sadness. The music texture brings an overwhelming feeling of despair and sadness as the piano plays soft, delicate chords. The impact of Holmes’s growling vocals provides an aspect of how serious the song is. His voice is valuable because Holmes is telling a story for those who are willing to listen. “Ravenghast” has a beautiful ring to it and the melodic side of the band is wonderful.

Paradise Lost has done a great job with Obsidian and this album shows how the band is not going anywhere anytime soon.