Misery Inc’s sound is similar to that on the latest Katatonia or Rapture albums in that they play depressing metal that almost sounds like it could be played on the radio. However, after listening to the CD I did not feel the overwhelming depression that comes with hearing one of those band’s CDs. Yesterday’s Grave may be dark, but it is tinged with a bit of hopefulness. In fact, a more fitting comparison to make may be to black-album era Metallica. The vocals of lead singer Jukkis Huuktanen sound quite similar to James Hetfield’s. Though the song structures are pretty pedestrian, the choruses are for the most part catchy and compelling and many of the songs have been stuck in my head over the past week.

As far as standout track are concerned, the opener “Suicide Serenade” gets things off to a good start. The chorus is an excellent example of Teemu Ylim’s superb lead guitar work. The band’s biography states that they originally intended to make music without a lead guitar but thankfully they changed their mind. The seventh track “Darkest Night” is a nice uptempo song that has what is perhaps the best chorus on the album. The dual guitar harmonies are a nice touch on this song. Those looking for a taste of what Misery Inc. is all about would not do wrong in checking out either of these two songs. Unfortunately, when the band slows things down, like on “Life ain’t fair” the result is not nearly as good.

I have to admit that when I first heard Yesterday’s Grave I was less than impressed. However, the album has grown on me after multiple listens. In the end it is the guitar work that sets Misery Inc. apart from the nu-Metal and hard rock bands currently dominating US rock radio. I highly recommend Yesterday’s Grave to those looking for a relatively straightforward dose of melancholy.

written by Scott Huffard

Playing time: 34.04