Draconian – A Rose for the Apokalypse (2011)

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After a few years of the release of “Turning Season Within”, Draconian finally makes their return with another crushing release: “A Rose for the Apokalypse”. With a considerable increase in maturity, the band crafts 10 tracks of the best Gothic Doom Metal in the scene. It is highly un-likely that any other band will rival the quality of this release in 2011.

Always characterized by the ‘beauty and the beast’-style vocal struggle between Anders Jacobsson and Lisa Johansson, the band builds up on their depressive sound and adds extra elements that make this release even more punishing and beautiful. With a powerful opening, “The Drowning Age” delivers the first blow of brilliance presented in this release. As the song progresses it nicely mellows to clean/harsh/female vocals and engaging guitar riffing.

In the typical Draconian fashion we have “The Last Hour Ancient Sunlight”, a track that very nicely changes tempos and adds some violin/viola use. This addition of the violin/viola is done majestically and creates an even more depressing feeling to the music. “End of the Rope” reminds us a bit of old Katatonia and October Tide in terms of the guitar riffs, thus making this song very good and one of our favorites of this release.

The tempo changes of “Elysian Nights” paired with Lisa’s angelic vocals (in particular, the chorus section) give this song beautiful passages that are nicely countered by Anders Jacobsson powerful growls. We particularly like the very effective drumming that is carried trough this song, keeping things very neat and tight.

The acoustic passages of “Dead World Assembly” give the song a very un-Draconian sound, and this makes it even more interesting for use. In said passages the band sounds a bit like Tristania, until the growls come back. The lyrics are particularly beautiful and the minimal vocal layering is done excellently.

If you want some more experimentation, check out the very interesting “The Quiet Storm” track, which delivers both typical Draconian antics and some other weird things here and there. Our favorite track has to be the dominating “The Death of Hours”. In this song the bass guitar is pounding mercilessly, the riffs are just phenomenal, and the combination of vocals greatly enhances the overall depressive mood of this monumental song. We particularly like the sublime slowdown near the 5 minute mark that features some enthralling keyboards, brilliant guitar work and nice clean vocals.

In general, we have to say that we completely LOVE this amazing release. All elements are very well crafted together and make for a masterpiece of the genre. Draconian has only been getting better with time and “A Rose for the Apokalypse” is a clear example of the band’s brilliance. This release is definitely recommended for all fans of the genre and the band it self.

Band: Draconian Album: A Rose for the Apokalypse
Label: Napalm Records

Release: June 26th, 2011 / July 5th, 2011 (USA)

Official Site myspace
Genre: Gothic Doom Metal

Country: Sweden

Rating: 95/100
Year: 

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