Soulgrind's long-awaited return with 'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is a fascinating journey through the evolution of their sound, offering a unique blend of gothic, black, and thrash metal influences. This album serves as a testament to the band's resilience and ability to adapt while staying true to their roots.
The Evolution of Soulgrind
Soulgrind's story began in the early '90s with a raw and intense death/doom sound. Their early works, characterized by Lord Heikkinen's raspy vocals and demo-like production, laid the foundation for their distinct style. However, it was the introduction of vocalist Tanya Lilith that truly shaped their musical direction, steering them towards a more gothic and melodic black/thrash sound.
What makes this evolution particularly intriguing is the band's ability to maintain their edge and passion despite the changes. Even with the loss of long-time drummer Agathon 'The Beast', Soulgrind's sound remained dynamic and captivating.
A Melodic Journey
'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is a melodic masterpiece, showcasing the perfect balance between Lilith's enchanting vocals and Azhemin's deep, grizzled growls. The album takes listeners on a journey through various metal subgenres, from thrash-infused tracks like 'Jylhä Metsämies' to the death/doom masterpiece 'The Origin of the White Serpent'.
One thing that immediately stands out is the contrast between the harsh and beautiful elements of the music. Lilith's cleans act as a soothing balm, providing a much-needed respite from the darkness and ugliness of Azhemin's growls. This dynamic duo creates a unique sonic landscape that is both captivating and emotionally charged.
Consistency and Cohesion
While 'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is a solid effort, it does suffer from some inconsistencies. The album's length, reaching over an hour, might be a bit much for some listeners, especially with the lack of memorable hooks in certain tracks. Additionally, Lilith's vocals, although powerful, occasionally struggle with pitch and tone, which can be a distraction.
Personally, I think the album would have benefited from some tighter editing. With a sixteen-year gap between releases, it's understandable that the band might have wanted to explore and experiment, but a more concise and focused approach could have elevated the overall impact.
A Promising Return
Despite its flaws, 'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is a welcome addition to Soulgrind's discography. It showcases their ability to create melodic and passionate music that is both overrated and underrated at the same time. The band's unique blend of styles and their dedication to their craft make them a force to be reckoned with.
In my opinion, this album is a solid 3.0/5.0. While it might not be perfect, it showcases the potential for Soulgrind to create truly exceptional works in the future. With a little more cohesion and refinement, they could easily reach new artistic heights.
