Over the sixteen years that Amorphis
has been around they have morphed into different variations, but always
seem to bring forth a strong effort, release after release. Their seventh
album, “Eclipse,” is no different. This may be their most complete,
all around album. Not one track is lacking. The music is layered well and
it results in a full and complete sound while still having nice contrast
between the heavy and the melodic. A few riffs you will think you are listening
to Anathema, Paradise Lost or even Pink Floyd. The whole band contributes
to this fresh dynamic sound. Including their new singer Tomi Joutsen (Sinisthra).
He has a vocal style that expands the band’s sound with a multiple
vocal technique like bands Susperia or Mercenary. Not that Amorphis really
sounds like either of those bands, but vocally speaking, the powerful and
passionate vocal technique by their new vocalist Joutsen has opened new
doorways for the band. He has a range from clean singing vocals to deep
death growls. His vocals work great for Amorphis’ vibrant sound. These
ten tunes and forty-four minutes plus on “Eclipse” are easily
the best album since “Elegy.” There are parts on this CD that
will please fans of the older material or new material…a perfect hybrid.
Rating: 93
Reviewed By: Jeffrey D. Adkins |
