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Tracklist
1. More
2. Lackluster Day
3. The Clone
4. Distant Memory
5. Release
6. Life Deprived
7. Between The Lines
8. Bound To Come
9. Under
10. Brother
11. Cut From Stone
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One of the most commercially viable outfits to reside on the Candlelight USA roster, Susperia comes through with a surprisingly memorable record in “Cut From Stone.” Despite the connections of the members of Susperia to black metal acts such as Dimmu Borgir and Old Man’s Child, the sound of these Norwegians is nothing like black metal at all, owing much more to Bay Area thrash metal and contemporary rock music.
While the group’s past records drew direct parallels to Testament, such influences are far less pronounced on “Cut From Stone.” Vocalist Pal Mathisen’s approach has taken on a Sully Erna-like tone that further adds to the accessibility of Susperia. Now, no one in the band is likely to freely admit that a more mainstream appeal is the ultimate goal here, but it’s pretty apparent that’s the scenario. Nothing wrong with making music that will appeal to more folks than your average dysfunctional Prozac ingestor that thinks screaming tantrums are the epitome of great art. In fact, more bands would do well to follow the lead of Susperia and put a little more thought into what they’re writing.
“Lackluster Day” is extremely reminiscent of a Godsmack track. It’s safe, hooky and most of all, damn good. Susperia takes on a thrashier edge during “The Clone” and pulls off death metal moments during “Life Deprived,” but these influences are scattered about – nowhere on “Cut From Stone” does Susperia stand in one place for very long. Whether the music takes a break from intensity to offer up a melodic guitar interlude or attempts to stand the entire world of underground music on its ear by attaching predominately rock choruses into patterns of more extreme music, the group is quite successful in their mission.
An in-your-face production by Daniel Bergstrand carries the strengths in the musicianship of Susperia, focusing on intensity and dramatic effect in order to make cuts like “More” (where the Godsmack sound once again creeps in), “Release” and “Between The Lines” (nice Dimebag riffing) quantifiable skullcrushers. Having moved forward from the capable display of “Unlimited,” “Cut From Stone” is evidence of further progression for Susperia. Possessing everything it takes to rock American audiences in a major way, this one’s a solid listen from start to finish.
Review by: E.F.
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