THE MANTLE

I have come to really enjoy checking out the various styles of progressive-metal. I tend to find the more experimental and off-the-beaten-path stuff much more interesting than any band that reminds me of the metal I endured back in the day like Maiden, Judas Priest, Ozzy, who just don't interest me any more. Agalloch is one such band that I have really taken to, appreciating very much their doomy style of post-rock/folk-metal ripe with imagery of cold, dark forests and grey statuary. While I came to the band through "Ashes" first "The Mantle" employs a similar sound, with clean guitar, acoustic guitars, and excellent fluid leads mixed with almost whispered growls. It never degenerates into silliness or unbearable harshness, in fact this is a band that should appeal to fans of Pink Floyd who have always thought about trying modern metal. The lyrics are also quite poetic and serve the imagery very well. Some claim this album (and band) to be boring and uneventful and I couldn't disagree more: this is wonderfully nuanced and atmospheric music that has maintained my interest over time-unlike more contrived bands like Riverside and Orphaned Land that just induce huge yawns from me at this point. I would personally recommend starting with "Ashes Against the Grain" although many people prefer this one. Both are good and provide another whole flavor to your metal collection. 6/10

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