Review Summary: A very influential masterpiece
Death In June is an extremely hard working band. Together, they have crafted a mere 20 studio albums, and have cooperated in the making of what is known as, Apocalyptic Folk. They’ve worked with a lot of bands similar to the genre, like Sol Invictus and Current 93 into forming its entire figure. All three bands have made an enormous contribution with the category and to this day, still are (despite a few LP’s being absolute crap). Death in June’s 5 track bonanza (excluding the live tracks), ‘Burial’ is definitely one of their best efforts. And even though there aren’t prominent Apocalyptic Folk/Neo-Folk tracks to be heard on ’Burial’ as much as Post-punk and Gothic Rock ethic, it’s still a very strong effort.
You would think 5 tracks would offer little musicianship, but in all reality that is not the case. Each favorable and easily approachable song on ‘Burial’ is well crafted, and not weak. Most songs are around 2-4 minutes long, with the last tune being clocked in at a staggering 6 minutes. Contrary to the songs lengths, words cannot describe how brilliant some of the melodies/harmonies played on ‘Burial’ are. They are some of the most heartwarming and blissful ones I’ve ever let my ears take into. For the most part, they are created on the acoustic guitar, piano, and bell/chime. And believe me on this, they unfold quickly.
From the moment you first hear ‘Death of the West’, you will notice it. It opens up with a strong melody played by the guitar, and unwraps with settling vocals. It’s the exact same with ‘Fields’ as well. It begins with some sort of high-key piano instrument, and backpacks along with chimes that can be heard simultaneously between the two. ‘Nirvana’ is a heavy song with hammering drums and an interesting melody, and ‘Sons of Europe’ is driven by a loud and floundered trumpet that pairs with Industrial/machinery noises heard faintly in the background. The finally, ‘Black Radio’ is pure torture (the good kind). It begins with some sort of nasally synth that eventually begins business with horns and a smooth basslines. Altogether, the song earns it’s place as Death in June’s best and is my favorite off of ‘Burial.’
Neo-Folk isn’t exactly well known per say, but groups like Death In June, Sol Invictus, and Current 93 are carrying the volume and obtaining the stardom. And as I explained before, even though this album isn’t 100% Folk, it has greatly influenced the band and has assisted in their future Neo-Folk/Apocalyptic productions that have also brought together the band.
‘Burial’ is a full blown masterpiece.
