Scourge of Malice

I first heard Graveworm on a sampler CD. The song was from their latest "Engraved in Black," so I decided to go out and buy both that album and "Scourge of Malice."

I can't believe how much I enjoy both of these albums, Graveworm has quickly become one of my favorite bands. Their sound is uniquely powerfull, thick, and bassy. The production on this album is top-notch, and the performance is equally as good. My favorite song is definitely "Unhallowed by the Infernal One." This song is just powerful as fuck, and it just kicks you in the face, and then just ends with a drawn out keyboard outro. Definitely one of the best songs they've written to date.

Then there are a few instrumentals. There is the intro, which is mainly synths. My personal favorite is the short little instrumental which consists of chant-like voices reminiscent of the Renaissance. Then there is also a kickass guitar instrumental.

My only small complaint with this album is in one song: "Demonic Dreams." Don't get me wrong, this song is incredible, until about 3 minutes in, when the little duel guitar solo kicks in. I don't know about anyone else, but this solo just sounds really bad. Luckily it doesn't last all that long, but I think that either the guitars weren't intonated properly, or they were a little out of tune. The notes just clash, and it is not pleasant to my ears. This really sucks too, because the rest of the song is so good (it's actually another one of my favorites), except for that damn solo! Maybe they wanted it to sound like that? I can't imagine that I'm the only one who doesn't like it either.

Anyway, the bottom line is that Graveworm really dominate the metal scene with their talented, well-written, and powerful music. I can imagine that they may be huge someday.

My last comment on this album is that Sabine Mair is definitely one of the, if not thee, most talented and beautiful female artists of this genre.

You won't be disapointed with this album if you like Symphonic Black Metal. It is definitely one of the best of the genre.