THE MANTLE

After a very good debut, ''The Mantle'' back in 2002 fell like an unexpected meteorite upon the world of heavy metal music. This U.S band instantly left its eternal mark, in terms of personality, style and quality. In my opinion, Agalloch came to take the place of good 90's Paradise Lost in the throne of solemn, doomy and sophisticated metal.

I don't know if it's prog or not but I know for sure that Agalloch serves a very specific artistic vision. Their sound consists in equal parts of slow, dramatic and gloomy metal, extended acoustic folk passages, post metal references and black metal background. These sonic elements entwine strongly with the deeper philosophy involved: There is a mysterious, grey poetry, a dark earthly gaze upon things, dare to say a pagan approach. Agalloch's music is one with the earth, the soundtrack of secret deities ruling wild places. All these are delivered through long compositions that each one feels like a myst's journey. Fast outbursts, acoustic parts and sad heavy riffs change constantly - excellent songwriting and arranging skills - offering delight to the heathen ears!

Discovering ''The Mantle'' may feel like being a solitary traveler paving upon dry autumn leaves at a twilight hour. Here you'll find a world of truth in shadows. Here you'll find metal quality. Become the myst yourself.