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Band Name: Agalloch
Album Name: Ashes Against The Grain
Rating: 4 / 5 User Rating: 4.5 / 5
Label: The End Records
Buy Album: Amazon.com
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Tracklist
1. Limbs
2. Falling Snow
3. This White Mountain On Which You Will Die
4. Fire Above, Ice Below
5. Not Unlike The Waves
6. Our Fortress Is Burning... I
7. Our Fortress Is Burning... II - Bloodbirds
8. Our Fortress Is Burning... III - The Grain
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God bless American metal, and no I am not talking about Lamb Of God so go back to hot topic and pick up the latest t-shirt design if that's what you thought of first. Agalloch is gracing everyone with their new effort 'Ashes Against The Grain' which doesn't have to prove a damn thing and is there for the mere ecstasy of amazing song writing. The Seattle group have come through once again to bring you a release that may become your new favorite disc by the band, though 'The Mantle' is a hard one to beat, this latest release carries on with that same eloquence that this band is so apt to.
From the start you know it's going to be one very much enjoyed and long ride with the band as they use the emotional spectrum, sweeping through the album in enlightening movements that capture the tones of the band's dismal and uplifting opuses. Usually it would take a special mood or time of day to enjoy an Agalloch album and the same goes for this new disc though it can be enjoyed pretty much anytime due to the differences in the bleak tones which are often highlighted by the overtones of lighter progressions. The vocals are the darkest aspect of this album which is something that adds that touch of melancholy to every song. The lyrics of course make for the proper context of Agalloch's vocal department, breathing sorrowful line after sorrowful line. There are mellower vocals that shine every once in awhile within the lengthy tracks which are also done tactfully.
Basically everything you remember about 'The Mantle' and 'Pale Folklore' is conveyed together on this new album and expanded further upon so that you are hearing a combination of efforts all the while watching it progress as well. You really can't go wrong with an Agalloch album, 'Ashes Against The Grain' is the proof. The band does take their time with recording but it's for the best in the end and always worth the wait. If only other acts in the U.S. would learn from the possibilities that Agalloch gives prime example of.
Review by: Dave Huffy
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