The Vision Bleak – Set Sail To Mystery (2010)

From the brilliant minds of Markus Stock and Tobias Schönemann we get another mesmerizing release from The Vision Bleak. The band is right back on track, exactly where they left off with “The Wolves Go Hunt Their Prey”. With their bombastic Gothic Metal, this duo has managed to enthrall all fans of the genre with hauntingly brilliant hymns, and they are back with 8 more on “Set Sail To Mystery”.

As with all their previous albums, we get a first hand look at the bands unique world that is highly influenced by Horror movies and literature. The band has worked over the years in creating a demented universe that only true Horror fans can appreciate, and with their characteristic sound, we also have a perfect soundtrack for it.

The bands characteristic devastating riffing is back, opening up most songs with a powerful entrance and never letting go. Markus Stock is a specialist when it comes to create powerful riffs and catchy melodies that will stay on your head for hours after you listened to the album. His work with band’s such as Empyrium, Noekk, Autumnblaze, and countless others has always been top notch and with The Vision Bleak he gets to use powerful straight forward riffs as much as he wants.

The second magical element behind the band’s peculiar sound is the use of lush keyboard melodies that help to create haunting melodies that work wonders with the subject of the lyrics. These keyboard and samples never sound like you are listening to the Star Wars soundtrack and never take over the music; they provide enough space for the guitars to shine as the main element of the band.

The combination of vocals between the two masterminds of The Vision Bleak, is another one of favorite aspects of this release (and every single other album of the band). The deep vocals are very fitting for this band and the use of harsh vocals here and there are just the icing on top of this fine cake.

We can go on and on about how good this band, but we think you’ve read enough to start wondering how good they really are. So be sure to get “Set Sail To Mystery” and enjoy a mystical journey into the minds of Markus Stock and Tobias Schönemann, you will not regret it.

Release: May 5th, 2010

Country: Germany