Agalloch - Ashes Against The Grain

Despite the misleading, Scandinavian-sounding name, Agalloch are in fact from the Pacific Northwest, an area more associated with the grunge era than folk-tinged metal. Yet Agalloch summon the same desolate, eldrich spirits as their Northern European counterparts, making for an epic, solemn affair.

Ashes Against The Grain, the band's third full length, once again has the critics and pigeon-holers scratching their heads. It's a mix of folk, post-metal, black metal, prog, without naturally falling into any category - a bit like Opeth. Indeed, the comparisons with the Swedish legends don't stop there - indeed, they could be seen as the American version of them. The album starts off in divine fashion - gorgeous progressions, flowing effortlessly and convincing the listener from the offset. Rasping and haunting vocals, punchy yet soothing guitars, epic song titles (This White Mountain on Which You Will Die) - all positive signs. Yet one's interest level doesn't sustain beyond even halfway through the album. The lead guitar work is somewhat lacking - the melodies are flat and unimaginative in many places, leaving one wanting. Long, languorous instrumental passages pepper the album, which do little for the overall feel of the music.

The potential is there, but the execution isn't. Agalloch may have mountains of critical acclaim but on this record I feel this praise isn't justified.

7/10

Highlights : "Limbs", "Falling Snow ".

See also - Opeth, Alcest, Fen.

Album Of The Week : Scott Kelly - Spirit Bound Flesh

Having delved extensively into experimental metal legends Neurosis's discography it was inevitable that I'd explore the solo projects of the members of the said band. I'd already been blown away by Steve Von Till's own work, such as the sombre, chilling "Breathe" and the excellent cover of Neil Young's "Running Dry", where he somehow manages to make the song even more mournful and mirthless than the original. I was expecting more of the same from fellow singer/guitarist Scott Kelly's work.

After such gargantuan, at times extremely dense and sludgy records as "Through Silver In Blood" and "Times of Grace", by his main band Neurosis, Scott understandably wanted a record with a little more breathing space.

This is exactly that, at times incredibly minimalist. The album's opener "I Don't Feel You Anymore" sets the tone for the following seven songs - essentially just Scott with an acoustic guitar. As you might've guessed, this isn't beer drinking party music, just as grim and heart-on-sleeve as Neurosis - never less than totally honest. "Sacred Heart" is an interesting tune - four minutes of a cappella , which to be honest drags a little, but the experimentation and audacity has to be admired. "Flower" is another great brooding number - there's certainly a lot of quality on the record, perfect for reflective moments late at night.

8/10

Highlights : "I Don't Feel You Anymore", "Flower"

See also - Neurosis "I Can See You", Steve Von Till "Breathe", Johnny Cash "I Walk The Line", Wino - "Iron Horse/Born To Lose"