Tales Of Darknord
Dismissed
[R.I.P. Prod.]
Within the Russian underground Tales Of Darknord are apparently regarded as
one of the leading death metal crews. I don't really know how tough their
local competition is, but in the crowded international death metal arena it
would take nothing short of genius to really stand out. Judging by this work
(the only release of theirs that I've heard so far) TOD are not about to blow
away their European or American counterparts, but then it's not exactly what
they are aiming for. At least not on this album.
"Dismissed" shows a band of experienced and confident musicians who do their own thing and don't worry too much about being the fastest, heaviest or most brutal band around. The six songs here are full of solid riffing, enjoyable solos and cool bass work. There is a number of fast sections scattered around, like Deicide-influenced parts on the album's opening track "Nonsense," but those are not the real highlights of the music. "Dismissed" is at its best when the band take a more medium tempo approach. That's when the music really begins to shine. TOD are good song writers, which means that instead of just rushing their way through some half-baked collection of downtuned riffs and non-stop blast beats, they have the skills to write actual songs that deserve repeated listens.
The first three tracks consist of more aggressive riffing and more frequent speed excursions, while the other three take an almost entirely mid-paced, dirge-like approach. The vocals are the American-type growls; not too low, more in the medium range, but well executed. The drumming is not very technical, but not juvenile either. There is also a bonus track where the band show a tender side of themselves. It is a ballad with clean, power metal vocals, melodic leads and even a piano.
Overall, "Dismissed" is a well-done and consistent death metal album. Keep an eye on this band. They are good, and you are likely to hear more about them in the future.
P.S. My copy is a tape from the R.I.P label. The CD version was released by More Hate Productions with different artwork but without the bonus track.
© 2000 boris
"Dismissed" shows a band of experienced and confident musicians who do their own thing and don't worry too much about being the fastest, heaviest or most brutal band around. The six songs here are full of solid riffing, enjoyable solos and cool bass work. There is a number of fast sections scattered around, like Deicide-influenced parts on the album's opening track "Nonsense," but those are not the real highlights of the music. "Dismissed" is at its best when the band take a more medium tempo approach. That's when the music really begins to shine. TOD are good song writers, which means that instead of just rushing their way through some half-baked collection of downtuned riffs and non-stop blast beats, they have the skills to write actual songs that deserve repeated listens.
The first three tracks consist of more aggressive riffing and more frequent speed excursions, while the other three take an almost entirely mid-paced, dirge-like approach. The vocals are the American-type growls; not too low, more in the medium range, but well executed. The drumming is not very technical, but not juvenile either. There is also a bonus track where the band show a tender side of themselves. It is a ballad with clean, power metal vocals, melodic leads and even a piano.
Overall, "Dismissed" is a well-done and consistent death metal album. Keep an eye on this band. They are good, and you are likely to hear more about them in the future.
P.S. My copy is a tape from the R.I.P label. The CD version was released by More Hate Productions with different artwork but without the bonus track.
© 2000 boris