point proven

Nice exchange guys.

The thing simply was that Death Came Through a Phantom Ship just didn’t click with me. I merely thought that the band should have gone even more overboard with the whole concept and songwriting, as in its current state things – for me – were just a bit too traditional and hold back, considering the potential. I agree that there are some nice dynamics in play on the album, but unfortunately the whole is not as coherent as I think it could be, and thus all those small details can sail a bit lost. So while I state that I’d prefer a more exaggerated display, I also expect tighter songwriting.

I do hope that when the band puts out another album, they’ll send it here, since I do believe there’s already some charm to them and I’m certain they’ll get better and better as their package gets more time to develop and evolve. But this time around, Death Came Through a Phantom Ship simply fell a bit short for me and I suppose my and the band’s expectations just didn’t meet each other. Such is life.

As for the whole black metal thing, in the end it’s a non-issue as I cannot by any stretch of imagination call myself one to be “troo” or “kvlt” and whether or not some band is either of those things, it holds no relevance to myself. It was there merely to point out the contrast of the black in the word ‘black metal’. Like Negakinu said, Deathspell Omega this ain’t but something else related to black metal, sure. Whatever gives the reader some sort of an idea about the music.

thanks for this great review. Someone that combines Monkey Island and black metal is almost like family in my book. ;) I am an orthodox black metal point ‘n click warrior. Sue me. \m/

Right. I actually did the photography and part of the lyrics for this album so I may be slightly biased. Slightly. I am not defensive though! I appreciate your honesty and your opinion is well articulated, which in itself is a rare feat nowadays. So kudos.

The thing with Carach Angren is the same thing with, for example, all the great horror movies of old. Hellraiser is silly to some and pure demonic gold to others. Nosferatu is the epitome of cinematic darkness to a few and just a weird dude with funny ears to most. Like Mortiis. Some will point at the fake rubber tentacles and go “FAKE!”, others see through it and enjoy it’s absurdity. It’s maybe a bit decadent, over the top, kitsch etc. but I do not believe it’s camp. They are far too profesional, devoted and sincere. The way I see it, you have Watain/Deathspell Omega evil and you have Carach Angren/Tartaros/Limbonic Art evil. The first is an evil hermit, the other has flashy spells.

I do have to disagree with you on the production. Try the album on a decent source with a good set of headphones. I promise you you’ll appreciate it. It was recorded by Patrick (from the band Rome) and he is, in my opinion, a master of balanced production. It may not be an in-your-face thrash metal sound/ gritty Leviathan whirlwind, but then again, CA isn’t a thrash band. or Leviathan. :) There are some beautiful dynamics on this disc.

I apologize for my incoherence. Good luck with the site!

Cheers,

E.