Whilst the political drama continues to affect the country, it’s no surprise that the Ukraine create so many bands fuelled with melancholy and despair. It’s time to add Crypt Of Silence to the list, who after five years have put out their debut full length ‘Beyond Shades’ from beneath the shadows.
The four piece may not have any previous records that ‘Beyond The Shades’ can be compared to but this doesn’t stop certain influences from being apparent. Their brand of doom death oozes with the sombre melodies of the likes of Mourning Beloveth or My Dying Bride, rather than the more gnarly approach of others. Each track is a long and winding epic, with harrowing, harsh vocals from Mikhael Graver from the off confirming what to expect for the rest of the album. With four tracks completing fifty minutes, it’s a slow paced unfolding of sorrow and angst and despite avoiding the clichés of adding synths, the band manage to unleash an atmosphere that will keep you hooked.
Sombre interludes of instrumentals contain the both beauty and brutality metal has often portrayed but unless you wish to stay in a melancholic haze, the album is a little tiresome. Lead guitars help push along the aura synths would often bring to the table but there is something that leaves ‘Beyond Shades’ just slight flat.
(6/10 Lily Randall)
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