Gothic

Whether this album spawned the birth of gothic metal or not one thing is for certain. Paradise Lost second effort Gothic, has certainly shown a maturation as well as a vast improvement in their doom/death sound. This album is still retains their morbid sound yet more listenable with a very solid performance by Nick Holmes. Not Nick's best vocal performance but shows definite improvements and that he is on the way up to reaching his full potential. Other reasons for this album tight heavy rhythm guitar as well as one of many inspiring performances from Gregor Mackintosh and his lead guitar work as well. He truly is the mastermind behind this unique band and one sorely underrated guitarist. The lead guitar is a crucial part of their sound and what makes this album so memorable.

The bass/drumming isnt too great, but that is a given in most bands in this genre and not as much of a concern. To top this impressive album off is the addition of female vocals in songs Gothic and The Painless as well as the occassional violin which works quite well and makes fans wonder if they would have benefited from incorporating more of these more gothic influences into their music. Some standout tracks include the title track, Gothic, one of their greatest of all time as well as one of Gregor's finer lead introductions in Rapture, the crushing riffs, powerful growled vocals and melodic violin of Eternal, the brilliant instrumental Angel Tears and the very fitting closing song(not including outro) The Painless, a fitting rival to Gothic's creativity and sound. Then I'd be forgetting Shattered and Falling Forever. The point to this is that there are no weak songs on this album.

In conclusion, this is an essential for any Paradise Lost fan and a must listen for anyone interested in discovering this great band. One of their greatest efforts without a shadow of a doubt. To think they go on to better things as well! Good work Paradise Lost!!! : )