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REVIEW: Somnus - Through Creations End Root Of All Evil Records, 2002
7/10
Somnus - Through Creations End - cover art From Cleveland, Ohio, hails the five-piece band Somnus who have just finished the work on their second album entitled "Through Creation's End". Inspired by legends of the past and mythology they create music that is interesting both lyrically and musically which is unfortunately too unusual these days. Another unfortunate thing is that I tend to care very little about whether the lyrics are breathtaking or plain lousy when I write my reviews since I see no point in letting it rule the appearance of the album as a whole. Music is music and books are books. However, Somnus do have some interesting things going on in their music as well. It would be a lie not to admit that they have been influenced by Cradle Of Filth and especially their more gothic moments. The mandatory female chanting is here as well and they sound extremely similar to Cradle Of Filth. The female member is called Rhiannon and she has also done some guest vocals for Avernus in the past. She also handles the keyboards which is one of the most important elements in the music of Somnus since most of the songs are at least to 50% built on keyboard arrangements. I wouldn't regard most of the music of this album as pure black metal though. It is more like a mix of symphonic death and doom metal with a slight touch of black metal. The thing that separates Somnus from many other bands is that their music is very melodic and the keyboard arrangements are rather innovative. They actually remind me of what Therion used to sound like in their early days. The eery vocals are also very well done. A good solid release with plenty of atmosphere from one of the few interesting black metal bands that the United States has to offer. Recommended for fans of old Therion, Dissection and older Cradle Of Filth. Stand-out tracks: "The Deceiver", "Creation's End".

written by Vincent Eldefors

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» Somnus band details
Tracklist

1. The Gate Of Wolves
/> 2. Warlock's Feast
3. Dawn Of Spirits
4. Tribunal Of Woe
/> 5. The Deceiver
6. Lament For Winter's Passing
7.
Creation's End
8. Unfulfilled Prophecy (live)

/>

Playing time: 43.06

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