Warthrone
Ghoststorm Eulogy
6.3
Warthrone, who feature ex-Dying Fetus drummer Erik Sayenga, play a style that sounds a bit like the aforementioned band mixed with symphonic black metal. Doesn’t sound too good on paper, does it? The truth is that this recording is a bit lopsided, but the band shows some definite promise. Though the keyboards can be a bit overpowering and the overall feel a bit too “happy,” Ghoststorm Eulogy is not a record to dismiss, especially if you are an enthusiast of the more keyboard-driven black metal sound. I personally don’t enjoy it, but I can’t deny that Warthrone do a good job playing the style.
Let me point out the two main flaws apparent on this record: as mentioned, some of the melodies are a bit too rooted in the eurocheese power metal sound, and furthermore, the ultra-precise, triggered-sounding drum tone doesn’t really mesh well with the band’s overall style. The reason that I still consider this a good record is the band’s keen understanding of what makes good emotional black metal. Volume swells and driving, powerful melodies make Ghoststorm Eulogy stand out. Some of the riffs even manage to be reminiscent of Dissection, though they do not consistently reach this high level of quality. The bouncy death metal grooves that occur occasionally will probably be seen as a flaw by some and as a strength by others. I feel that they don’t add very much to the music, and often seem out of place. Nevertheless, they are well-executed for what they are.
The level of musicianship on this record is high, unsurprisingly. Everything sounds extremely tight and well-performed, but songwriting is far more important than musicianship when it comes to black metal. The production is quite good as well, though as mentioned, the drums sound peculiar. The rest is a bit thin and compressed, though the levels are right.
Is this record worth tracking down? Only if you really like symphonic black metal. However, it is pretty good, and I’m sure that the band will continue to solidify their sound and become better. If you like the idea of the band’s style, you might want to try this. Just don’t expect Dying Fetus.
