Fallen Angels Extinction
Self-released Demo 2004
By Russell Garwood
Sweden's Fallen Angels return with another solid, but rather derivative demo. Extinction showcases a melodic death sound heavily influenced by the likes of In Flames and Dark Tranquillity. The four songs are compelling and memorable, with crunchy, melodic guitars and plenty of solos. Tight drums fit both mellow and heavy sections, while the bass is solid. Keyboards bring Dark Tranquillity comparisons to the forefront, yet work well, and are used intelligently. The vocals are a death growl - by no means guttural, they are still harsh, but show little variation. Nevertheless they are well performed and fitting.
Despite such apparent influences, the band do have an individual touch in some of their tunes, while there is no denying the songs are well written and thoughtfully constructed. The members are also all talented on their chosen instruments, making for one of the better demos in this saturated field. In addition to this, good production, and professional packaging help create an above-average self-financed release. Yet all of this said, Fallen Angels are still playing music very similar to a myriad of acts out there, which seems a shame considering the member's capabilities. I look forward to hearing further work, and hope the band can introduce more individuality into their music. That said, fans of melodic death could do far worse than checking Extinction out.
6.5/10
Official Fallen Angels website
Self-released Demo 2004
By Russell Garwood
Sweden's Fallen Angels return with another solid, but rather derivative demo. Extinction showcases a melodic death sound heavily influenced by the likes of In Flames and Dark Tranquillity. The four songs are compelling and memorable, with crunchy, melodic guitars and plenty of solos. Tight drums fit both mellow and heavy sections, while the bass is solid. Keyboards bring Dark Tranquillity comparisons to the forefront, yet work well, and are used intelligently. The vocals are a death growl - by no means guttural, they are still harsh, but show little variation. Nevertheless they are well performed and fitting.
Despite such apparent influences, the band do have an individual touch in some of their tunes, while there is no denying the songs are well written and thoughtfully constructed. The members are also all talented on their chosen instruments, making for one of the better demos in this saturated field. In addition to this, good production, and professional packaging help create an above-average self-financed release. Yet all of this said, Fallen Angels are still playing music very similar to a myriad of acts out there, which seems a shame considering the member's capabilities. I look forward to hearing further work, and hope the band can introduce more individuality into their music. That said, fans of melodic death could do far worse than checking Extinction out.
6.5/10
Official Fallen Angels website
