|
Usually near the
opening and the closing of the year
I find the most exciting and interesting
releases. Maybe it is something subconscious,
but it is clear that this is happening
(at least in my mind). This time the
third full-length release of the Maltese
doomsters came to prove the righteousness
of my beliefs. I firmly believe that
2005 was the year of Forsaken, because
they released the most important CD
in the doom metal scene for the first
half of the ‘00s decade. This
achievement, that many will doubt
its originality, but none shall deny
its highest quality, it is of outmost
significance, since it was released
in the light of a scene that is steadily
growing, both in terms of quantity
and quality. "Dominaeon"
is a sonic pleasure for the thirsty
ears of the sworn epic/doom metal
fans. Close to the aura of the monumental
"Tales of Creation" and
"Beyond the Crimson Horizon",
this release places Forsaken in the
leading position of the scene. I have
the highest respect for the bands
that defined our beloved music, but
I can't refuse to younger bands
their contribution to the history
of doom metal.
As I said I will
agree with anyone that will doubt
the originality of "Domineaon",
but I am sure everyone will admit
the drastic evolution of Forsaken
since their infant steps. The band
has followed a creative road of advancement
that peaks with this release. Leo
Stivala is one of the most expressive
singers, while Sean Vukovic's
guitar solos will make Lars Johansson's
cheeks rise from pride. Albert Bell
and Simeon Gatt are putting an excellent
display of their abilities to build
the strongest rhythm section around.
"Obsidean Dreams" and
"Kenosis" are haunting
slow tunes of morbidity and void.
The self-titled track and "Wreched
of the Earth" are reminding
us how power/epic is tightly weaved
with doom metal and revive strong
and unfading feelings of our youth,
where "trueness" through
insufferable slowness was not an exhibition
prerequisite. Finally the closing
"Resurgam" will make you
shiver with the grandiose feeling
that transmits (without a single keyboard
note). The cover of Jowita Kamiska
and the production of David Vella
are absolutely astonishing and contribute
to the whole atmosphere.
I can't do
otherwise, but recommend it to everyone
who would like to listen to inspired
doom metal. I can't do otherwise,
but to sleep and wake with "Dominaeon"
in my ears. |
