Review Summary: a modern classic in melodic death metal.
Every so often a band comes out with an album that meets and surpasses just about every expectation placed upon it. For Dark Tranquillty, that album is Character. Released in 2005, Character busted right through the gates of the metal world and showed us all that Dark Tranquillity still have it in them and then some. Mixing their beautiful melodic style, atmosphere, and brutality with more “core” elements, it blew away just about everybody who listened to it. I am proud to say I am part of that group of people.
Mikael Stanne – Vocals
Niklas Sundin – Guitar
Martin Henricksson – Guitar
Daniel Antonsson – Bass
Martin Brändström – Keyboard
Anders Jivarp – Drums
Anyone who is at least somewhat familiar with Dark Tranquillity’s work will know that they never stay the same. For just about every album they make, there are always subtle yet noticeable differences that keep the album fresh. For instance, the album Damage Done is notable for their more melodic approach to the guitar work, and their album The Minds I having clean vocals. For Character, Mikael and the gang had decided to add elements from the every hyped NWOAHM. By NWOAHM I mean like metalcore. The first thing you will notice is the addition of breakdowns. It should also be noted that the guitars are much heavier, and the ambience created by the keyboard is top notch.
The album starts like a freight train and does not let up (aside from the occasional breakdown to allow you to catch your breath). Starting with the explosion of drums in the beginning of The New Build, and ending with the soft, melancholy riff from My Negation, this album has little to no boring moments what so ever, which is quite an amazing accomplishment. One of the best moments happens right in the beginning of the album, where in the very beginning of the song the new build, Anders lets loose a devastating barrage of drums, leading into the opening riff and Mikael’s amazing growl.
Lost to Apathy is in my opinion the best song Dark Tranquillity’s ever written. It is absolutely incredible. The riff is melodic as it is heavy. The keyboard gives just the right amount of atmosphere. It truly is an amazing song that deserves to be heard.
Of course, no album is without flaws. The vocal work has little vocal variety. No clean vocals... just slight changes in the growls from time to time. Of course even this isn't bad. Mikael's growls are so good it does not matter.
Another important thing to note is the flow of the album. All the songs clock at around the same time, and no song feels like it should be placed elsewhere. Fillers are absolutely non-existent and the whole album as a whole is incredibly strong. Sure there are weaker tracks than others (Mind Matters, I am looking at you) but even that song is a vital piece of the album.
I know what you people are thinking. All he is discussing is the guitar and vocal work. How does this album compare to others in the bands discography and the genre in general? I’d have to say it is one of the most unique offerings they have ever produced. Not since The Gallery or Slaughter of the Soul has there been such quality and inspiration. By mixing all their old styles with the NWOAHM as it is aptly called, they have created an album that is both as fresh as it is nostalgic. This album is a true modern classic and in my opinion, one of the greatest Melodic Death Metal albums ever conceived. I place it right up there with albums like dark tranquillitiy's The Gallery and In Flames The Jester Race. I would even go so far as to say it matches At the Gates legendary Slaughter of the Soul. To sum it up, I have three words for you. GET IT NOW!!
Recommended Tracks:
The New Build
Through Smudged Lenses
Lost to Apathy
My Negation
