Dismal Rubino Liquido (Three Scarlet Drops
)
DreamCell11 Entertainment dc1103-01 April 2003
By Russell Garwood
Dismal are an intriguing prospect, the first release on DreamCell11 Entertainment, a new label linked with the more familiar code666. "Rubino Liquido (Three Scarlet Drops )" showcases a fairly unusual form of goth, with nods to the early 4AD roster, metallic elements, some EBM/dance synths and heavy classical influences. A live orchestra gives the extensive symphonics an organic feel, rather than the cold cynicism of samples, and the graceful melodies juxtapose harsher guitars and programmed drums.
The lead guitars of session musician Alessandro Verando focus primarily on melody, and as such are not overly technical but flow with the music, while session bass provided by Frater Alchemoth Katharian is well-performed and powerful. Male vox from Afelio are largely whispered in an early doom style, adding feeling and great contrast to the ethereal singing of Ae. Bradacs keyboards, synths, piano, programming and rhythm guitar are all well placed. Jumping from deep, plodding lines to higher syncopated rhythms, the pianos add a dramatic feel, while the electronics provide contrast to an otherwise acoustic sound.
Overall this is a very successful album, one that is all to easy to get lost in. My only complaint would be that all the tracks are of a very similar tempo and feel, and more variety in this respect would be welcome. Nevertheless, "Rubino Liquido (Three Scarlet Drops )" will appeal to many goth and metal fans, and is well worth checking out.
DreamCell11 Entertainment dc1103-01 April 2003
By Russell Garwood
Dismal are an intriguing prospect, the first release on DreamCell11 Entertainment, a new label linked with the more familiar code666. "Rubino Liquido (Three Scarlet Drops )" showcases a fairly unusual form of goth, with nods to the early 4AD roster, metallic elements, some EBM/dance synths and heavy classical influences. A live orchestra gives the extensive symphonics an organic feel, rather than the cold cynicism of samples, and the graceful melodies juxtapose harsher guitars and programmed drums.
The lead guitars of session musician Alessandro Verando focus primarily on melody, and as such are not overly technical but flow with the music, while session bass provided by Frater Alchemoth Katharian is well-performed and powerful. Male vox from Afelio are largely whispered in an early doom style, adding feeling and great contrast to the ethereal singing of Ae. Bradacs keyboards, synths, piano, programming and rhythm guitar are all well placed. Jumping from deep, plodding lines to higher syncopated rhythms, the pianos add a dramatic feel, while the electronics provide contrast to an otherwise acoustic sound.
Overall this is a very successful album, one that is all to easy to get lost in. My only complaint would be that all the tracks are of a very similar tempo and feel, and more variety in this respect would be welcome. Nevertheless, "Rubino Liquido (Three Scarlet Drops )" will appeal to many goth and metal fans, and is well worth checking out.
