Dusk and Void Became Alive

The last thing I expected was for DVKE to make an album along the same lines of "Come Heavy Sleep" again. That album being my faviourite of their discography, I must say, this is definitely the best thing that could've happened to this band. There is much more polyphonic layering of both sounds and vocals. On this album, the band picks up yet another new vocalist, who also is quite remniscent of the vocals that filled the "Come Heavy Sleep" album.

The production is clear and pristine, filled with lush layers of carefully sculpted orchestral sounds playing endless anthems of sorrow that would fit well to any funeral march or lowering of a casket. Strings, brass, oboes, horns, etc. are prominent thru the whole disc with each song highlighting different parts that build a symphony of pain and anguish.

Richard's vocals are also less prominent thru this release, with the female vocals taking a front seat and doubled up into multiple melodies at certain sections. The drums are quite calm and carry well with the sounds, instead of forcing rhythm into the equation and carrying the songs. Overall, a simply brilliant suprize for me, who had thought DVKE would never return to their style of an earlier work.