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The German dark metallers, Bethlehem,
have again re-modified the dark dimensions of their chaotic mold.
With their fifth opus, Mein Weg, Bethlehem embarks on another dreary
musical journey consisting of heavy rhythmic groove, epic melancholia
(reminiscent of old-Empyrium at times) and of course, classic suicidal
dark metal aggression. This album may be their most sophisticated
output in the band's history of 13 years! Experimental is a rather
bleak term for these guys. Bethlehem are probably the most unique
underground band to come out of Germany! There is a wide variety of
musical splendour on "Mein Weg". From the very heavy, catchy
"Aalmutter" to the atmospheric & melodic "Frl.
Deutsch" to good 'ol dark metal-style "Dr. Miezo",
Bethlehem still retain a very diverse and original sound throughout.
The music is constantly very heavy and melodic, while the vocals range
from clean to Rammstein-like to death grunts to obnoxiously brutal
black metal screaming and whaling (typical of Bethlehems' earlier
releases). All of the songs are adequately interesting with many twists
and turns regardless of the lengthy album output of near 74 minutes.
Most of the length, however, comes from the tenth track ("Maschinesatan"
- almost 27 minutes!), which pauses for about 8 minutes before going
into an old temporal vocal/piano melody. This is the only setback
for the album. I would've preferred another couple of songs or some
remixes or something, but it's a small factor. "Mein Weg"
is exquisitely proportionate!! Whether you're into aggressive music
or slightly more melodic music (even rock), you may find this interesting.
For long-time fans and new fans alike!!! Rating: 91 Reviewed By: Thomas Mitchell |
