Silent Stage

Raptures third release shows them both progressing and standing still. Of all the releases to this point, this one is perhaps the most varied but not. As contradictory as that sounds, one listen to this Doom happy release will explain it all.

The production is on par with their second release. The guitars are heavier on this album as there is a lot more palm muting. The open chorded parts and duel/triple guitar harmonies are still intact and utilized well. There are a few leads but no solos to speak of.

The bass follows the simplistic drums with the drums stepping it up a notch and somewhat breaking out of their typical mold. In saying that the flare that they add is a nice touch.

The vocals are a little better but still out of place. The cleans are the same that they've been, its apparent that they will probably never change (not a bad thing however).

Over all, there aren't many surprises here as the band is apparently comfortable with their sound and style. This is both admirable and detrimental as there is an overwhelming sense of "been there, done that" from start to finish. So, for those who like their band(s) to stay the same from release either changing slightly or not at all will love this band.

The rest of us however will find this album, while good, fairly pedestrian. The best songs are 1,2 & 4 as they are the band pushing their boundaries while the rest of the album is more of the same/filler. Thankfully there are still the familiar guitar dirges and bleak suicide inducing atmospheres that the band have become famous for.