Norwegian progressive metallers In Vain haven’t offered a whole amount of originality during their career to date, it is fair to say, and the opening moments of ‘Ćnigma’ make it clear that things are not about to radically change on this, their their third album. What has altered is the level of songwriting consistency that these sextets are able to bring to the table. Previous efforts, 2007’s ‘The Latter Rain’ and 2010’s ‘Mantra’ were eventually spoilt somewhat by the odd overlong or boring track being left over after a series of predominantly good songs.
‘Ćnigma’ arguably avoids such a pitfall by featuring more songs of a very good, rather than great, persuasion, but that doesn’t mean the achievement of In Vain should be considered lessened. Everything on this record is immaculately played and produced, and there isn’t anything that should seriously be accused of hero worshipping the likes of Enslaved or Opeth either. Sure there are plenty of acoustic guitars weaving their way in and out of the mix, and some cracking black metal style harsh vocals alternated with anthemic cleans, but In Vain have not tried to better any legends of the so-called progressive death metal genre here. Instead they have, justifiably, focused more than ever on writing a selection of memorable songs.
Opener ‘Against the Grain’ sets the stall out here. It’s got Gothenburg aping guitars and the odd hook that masters of that style, Dark Tranquillity, would truly be proud of. In fact, more than the off-cited Opeth, it is the epic melodic death metal of Omnium Gatherum that is perhaps a more accurate reference point for most of ‘Ćnigma’. Songs develop in their own natural way without resorting to needless atmospheric sections. There is a realisation that In Vain’s true strengths lie in crafting great metal songs not great works of art. Slightly puzzlingly bonus track ‘Rise Against’ is another highlight, so seek it out if you can, but the real jewel in the crown is the superb closer ‘Floating on the Murmuring Tide’. In many ways it is the most expansive track on the album, with its use of strings, piano and saxophone, but it makes the mix sound enthralling rather than merely just intriguing. Dare one say it but maybe that is a lesson that Ihsahn could learn before his next album.
If previous In Vain albums were for those who wished Opeth would try and make another ‘Blackwater Park’ then ‘Ćnigma’ is for those who just want some high quality, enjoyable extreme metal to listen to. Put simply, it is probably one of the best metal records that will see the light of day in 2013.
‘Ćnigma’ is out now via Indie Recordings. In Vain play Camden Barfly on 4th April with Solefald and Vreid.
NOTE FROM THE EDITOR
We don't run any advertising! Our editorial content is solely funded by lovely people like yourself using Stereoboard's listings when buying tickets for live events. To keep supporting us, next time you're looking for concert, festival, sport or theatre tickets, please search for "Stereoboard". It costs you nothing, you may find a better price than the usual outlets, and save yourself from waiting in an endless queue on Friday mornings as we list ALL available sellers!
‘Ćnigma’ arguably avoids such a pitfall by featuring more songs of a very good, rather than great, persuasion, but that doesn’t mean the achievement of In Vain should be considered lessened. Everything on this record is immaculately played and produced, and there isn’t anything that should seriously be accused of hero worshipping the likes of Enslaved or Opeth either. Sure there are plenty of acoustic guitars weaving their way in and out of the mix, and some cracking black metal style harsh vocals alternated with anthemic cleans, but In Vain have not tried to better any legends of the so-called progressive death metal genre here. Instead they have, justifiably, focused more than ever on writing a selection of memorable songs.
.jpg)
.jpg)
