Soulgrind's journey is a fascinating tale of musical evolution and resilience. From their raw and unpolished beginnings in the early '90s to their current status as a veteran band, they've left an indelible mark on the gothic and black/thrash metal scene.
The Evolution of Soulgrind
When Lord Heikkinen founded Soulgrind, it was a solo project with a distinct death/doom sound. Over time, the band expanded, and with the addition of vocalist Tanya Lilith, their musical direction took a dramatic turn towards gothic black/thrash. This shift, I believe, was a pivotal moment in their history, shaping their unique identity.
The early years were characterized by experimentation. Soulgrind explored different vocal styles, eventually settling on the talented Azhemin as their harsh vocalist. This period of discovery, though inconsistent, laid the foundation for their signature sound.
A Melodic Revolution
The release of "Pakana" in 2007 marked a turning point. The music became more cohesive, centered around Lilith's melodic prowess. This evolution continued with "The Tuoni Pathway," solidifying their direction before an unexpected hiatus.
"Ad Pulchram Mortem" is a testament to their resilience. It blends the old and new, retaining the melodic essence of their recent works while retaining hints of their raw, blackened roots. This album showcases a band that, despite the long break, has retained its passion and edge.
Musical Influences and Style
Soulgrind's sound on this album draws comparisons to fellow Finnish band Hanging Garden and the melodic black metal of Sojourner. They also delve into thrash and death/doom territories, reminiscent of Paradise Lost. The contrast between Azhemin's deep, growling vocals and Lilith's emotionally charged cleans creates a unique dynamic, with Lilith's beauty countering Azhemin's beastly roar.
Tracks like "Jylhä Metsämies" and "A Whispered Curse Upon the Gale" showcase their thrash influences, while "The Origin of the White Serpent" is a masterpiece of death/doom. Lilith's choruses are infectious, and her performance on "Tears of the Earth" and "As a Narrow Fjord Descends" is nothing short of stunning.
Consistency and Length
However, the album isn't without its flaws. There's a lack of consistency, with some tracks feeling less memorable. "In the Circus of Tuonela" feels out of place and could have benefited from more hooks. The album's length, reaching 65 minutes, is a double-edged sword. While it allows for epic tracks like the finale, "Into the Shadows of Devotion," a tighter structure might have enhanced the overall impact.
Final Thoughts
"Ad Pulchram Mortem" is a solid return for Soulgrind, but it's not without its rough edges. The band's passion and artistry shine through, especially in Lilith's performances. With a little more refinement and cohesion, their next release could be an even greater triumph. I, for one, am eagerly awaiting their next move and hope they continue to push the boundaries of their craft.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
