Review Summary: Consistent but lacking
Lately, in the melodic death metal genre bands are becoming watered down versions of themselves. No real drive keep the musicians from changing or challenging the status quo. "In Flames" is a good example one of the forerunners of the genre degenerating to a lackluster modern metal band. In Insomnium's case, "Shadows of the Dying Sun" is one which has good moments but with unsatisfying drive for something memorable.
The album starts off with the song "Primeval Dark" it starts off simple then leads into an atmosphere in which only insomnium can create with beautifully mastered guitar work by Markus Vanhala. Speaking of which if you have listened to "Omnium Gatherum" most recennt album there are similarities between the riffs in the first two songs. The single While we sleep" is probably a song in which can describe the entire album. A ride to the deepest part of the woods and listening to the problems in which nature makes us face. Depression, Fear and Lost being these feelings but yet to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Insomnium's music is one that is unlike any other as a listener you can become lost in it. It's like a beautiful figure of your imagination comes to life but masked with a cloud of higher emotional thinking.
It's intoxicating that Insomnium has the ability to make a beautiful record. Another highlight is the song "Black Heart Rebellion" which comes at you like a you are warrior in a battle. Beating you with great song writing and blasting riffs which can send any listener into a state of what i call "wind mill" head banging. It is fascinating and thoroughly enjoyable melody and with bits of sorrow packaged in.
Insomnium's has released a album that must grow on you. At first, this can be underwhelming when compared to the previous work they have put out. But, this album is great in it's own right first we must be able to make the journey. A journey that will be about a hour of our lives, let me rise in the wake of the Dying Sun.
