Sweet Disillusions

Dying Passion is not you typical gothic metal band. That is to say: they are not anymore. Their previous albums (although unique in a certain way) did still venture in gothic metal territories. Their latest album "Sweet Disillusions" however, can hardly be categorized as gothic metal (and even as metal). The style of the band changed to a mix between met/rock and blues/jazz influences.

The first sign of this is getting rid of the flute and violin (two instruments that were prominent on the previous albums). Instead of these instruments, Dying Passion added a horn section (consisting on of a clarinet, trumpet and saxophone). Furthermore, the band utilizes a piano and an organ. And (not to forget) the guitar is still present (although a little less upfront than would be expected from a metal-band). So, the band decided to experiment in mixing different styles. And as is true for every experiment: there is a chance this will be successful or it will fail miserably.

Although it took a few spins to let the album grow on me, I can definitely state that this particular experiment is a total success. The atmosphere of the album is warm and (for lack of a better word) funky with a rocking undertone. The song in which the use of the horns is best utilized would be "Velvet Confessions" which is a pretty up-tempo song with a great synergy between the horns and the guitar. "Tender Renown" is another song with a great use of the horns and with an intro which almost borders on jazz. Although one can doubt the metal-ness of this song, it fits in the album perfectly.

"Do You want to Fly" (although not as experimental) is also a great song with mostly semi-spoken lyrics and a spooky "X-files-esque" theme in the background. Great song!

All in all, "Sweet Disillusions" is a superb album for those who are not narrow minded and enjoy listening to a band that is not afraid to experiment. Fans of female fronted metal/rock (like myself) will also not be disappointed. Zuzanna Lipova has a warm voice and is capable of delivering both the low and high notes without any problem.