Here is my review of Tonight's Decision for metal-archives.com.
Its okay to have some non-metal albums in your collection, but there are probably others youll want before this one.
Tonights Decision is probably more satisfying than most of the hard rock on the market, but it doesnt quite manage to be captivating for the full hour of music here. I think Katatonia has succeeded in creating an atmosphere throughout the album, but it is just too dreary at times. The lyrical content is depressing and deals with a lot of suicide and impending doom. The similarities between the sound of the songs, and the steady vocals reinforce the mood. Song structures do vary a bit, but the tones and ideas in the songs are so similar that its hard to notice at times. Part of this problem has to do with the production. The verses and choruses of the songs run together after a while, and the songs sound the same, largely due to the fact that these songs all move at about the same pace. There are times where the production should spice up the album, but the touches are very subtle. There are vocal and drum echoes, bass passages, and some electronic effects, but these all fit so well that it takes a good ear to notice them. When an album needs some variety, this doesnt help. In general, the drums arent flashy, the bass is almost nonexistent, and the vocals are somewhat monotonous.
The album starts well, as the first four songs are pretty catchy despite the dark topics and slow pace. Anders Nyströms lead playing is what makes these songs work. His guitar tone is very clean and high-pitched compared to the gritty, crunchier rhythm guitar work. In Death, A Song is a good example of how the two guitars combine to make a song work. Afer a while though, the chugging guitar on every track starts to get a bit dull. Nyströms guitar also becomes less interesting. Right into the Bliss is a happier sounding song, but it just kind of plods along.
Late in the album is A Darkness Coming, which is a highlight that shouldnt be overlooked. The acoustic guitar sounds warmer than anything else on the album, and theres a pleasant flute sound in the background. Then in the middle of the song, a guitar solo (I remember those!) stands out. More guitar solos could have really livened things up. This is a great moment. In a similar vein to the acoustic parts of this song is the instrumental tacked on the end of the final track.
Katatonia succeeded in what they were trying to do most likely. Unfortunately, this album has limited appeal because of the depressing atmosphere and lack of variety. There are some good songs here, but for the most part, this is not something youll end up listening to all that often.
Recommended Tracks: For My Demons; In Death, A Song; A Darkness Coming.
, and dance of december souls is pretty good, but a lot of their music sounds the same too me, and it's depressing music as well.
