Gothic/Doom
AFM Records
Release Date – January 24th 2025
Line Up:
Jennie-Ann Smith – Vocals
Marcus Jidell – Guitar
Mats Rydstrom – Bass
Andreas Habo Johansson – Drums
Tracklist:
Long Black Waves
I See You Better In The Dark
My Hair Is On Fire (But I’ll Take Your Hand)
Lovers Give A Kingdom To Each Other
Being With The Dead
Until Forever Again
Notes From Underground
Between You, God, The Devil and the Dead
Since their debut in 2013, Avatarium has consistently delivered powerful music. Originally founded by Leif Edling of Candlemass, they quickly gained legendary status. Edling’s departure due to health reasons left the band in the capable hands of guitarist Marcus Jidell, who also produced and mixed this new offering.
The album kicks off with the solid doom of “Long Black Waves,” setting the mood perfectly. Jennie-Ann Smith’s vocals continue to impress, smooth and melodic, perfectly complementing the dark vibes. A wonderful warm organ line adds a touch of 60s influence. “I See You Better In The Dark” ups the pace with a driving groove, showcasing Jidell’s impressive guitar work.
“My Hair Is On Fire (But I’ll Take Your Hand)” opens with a plaintive piano line, building into a melodic doom epic that rolls and tumbles with waves of dark noise before culminating in a smoky climax.
“Lovers Give A Kingdom To Each Other” features an acoustic start reminiscent of Tony Iommi’s early Sabbath work. The song takes a jazzy turn with lively guitar lines and background vibes, while Smith delivers a heart-wrenching torch song.
“Being With The Dead” unleashes heavy riffs and a powerful drum intro from Andreas Habo Johansson. “Until Forever And Again” is more foreboding, with a monumental keyboard line and reverb-drenched vocals. The instrumental “Notes From Underground” offers a brief Eastern-inspired interlude before the title track concludes the album with another beautifully melancholic piano line and Smith’s soul-baring vocals.
Avatarium transcends the label of “doom metal.” They seamlessly blend various elements, creating a unique and captivating sound. This album is a masterpiece, deserving of careful listening and appreciation.
I highly recommend checking out this record.
Written by: Smudge