Label: Massacre Records
Review by Tony Cannella
After seven albums, fifteen years and many ex-members the seminal Norwegian symphonic gothic metal band Trail of Tears is no more. Along with Theatre of Tragedy and Tristania, they were probably my introduction to this style of music. Their newest album, “Oscillation” sees the band riding off into the sunset and while all three bands achieved varying degrees of success it was probably Trail of Tears who should have been more successful than they were in my opinion.
Going back to their 1998 debut “Disclosure in Red” Trail of Tears always brought the goods. Their songs have always maintained the perfect balance between aggression, brutality and melody and “Oscillation” continues in that vein. The aggressive vocals by founding member Ronny Thorsen combined with the powerfully rich and melodic vocals of Cathrine Paulsen are excellent as always and the two complement each other so well. The opening number “Waves of Existence” sets the standard as Ronny’s vocals are as mean as ever only to be offset by the beauty of Cathrine’s voice. “Scream Out Loud” is an up-tempo and energetic track with Cathrine taking the bulk of the vocals on this one. “Crimson Leads on the Trail of Tears” starts off with a slower tempo before evolving into a chaotic, pounding track. Other highlights include: “Room 306”, “Vultures Guard My Shadow” and “Our Grave Philosophy”. So if this is the epilogue for Trail of Tears, “Oscillation” sees them going out on a good note.
Rating – 79/100
Tracklist
- Waves of Existence
- Scream Out Loud
- Crimson Leads on the Trail of Tears
- Oscillation
- Path of Destruction
- Vultures Guard My Shadow
- The Dawning
- Room 306
- Our Grave Philosophy
- Lost In Life
- Eradicate
- Sleep Forever
- Quick Fix of Shame
Line Up
- Ronny Thorsen – Vocals
- Cathrine Paulsen – Vocals
- Bjørn Erik Næss – Guitars
- Endre Moe – Bass Guitars
- Bjørn Dugstad Rønnow – Drums
Links
Facebook [Ronny Thorsen] * Facebook [Trail of Tears]