PAINTING ON GLASS

This Norwegian band are known for being the first to play that doomy, atmospheric style of music with a female vocalist. Bands like THE GATHERING, NIGHTWISH and many more have been inspired by their debut "Tears Laid In Earth". This is their second studio album and their first with Ann-Mari Edvardsen on vocals after Kari left to pursue a solo career. I must say that Experimental / Post Metal is one of my favourite genres. Not a lot in the way of metal here though as the band really lays down some atmospheric soundscapes that are so inspiring.

"Magma" features these industrial-like sounds as drums join in around a minute banging slowly. Vocals before 2 minutes join in.Trombone after 2 1/2 minutes. Cool song. "Commemoration" opens with gentle trombone and some noises. It kicks in heavily after a minute and vocal melodies join in. Amazing sound as mellotron also blows in. Drums become prominant 2 1/2 minutes in with the guitars playing over top. Vocals are back 4 minutes in. Incredible track ! "Crystal Orchids" is mellow with soprano vocals throughout. "Persistant And Fleeting" is another favourite of mine. It opens with female vocal expressions that sound other-worldly. The music kicks in after a minute and i'm really reminded of THE GATHERING. The guitar is so tasteful before 5 minutes as it goes on and on. "White Waters" is brighter sounding with heavy drums. "Aurora Borealis" is the shortest song at 1 1/2 minutes. It's basically a spacey soundscape. "Dreamscapes" has this killer intro then it settles right down with piano only. Reserved vocals come in. A heavier sound comes in a minute later with some nice guitar. Excellent track. "Aurora Australis" has this haunting atmosphere then we get some loud but slow drumming later.

"Azure" is such an impressive soundscape that is powerful and dark. That has to be mellotron. "Veiled Exposure" is slow moving with lots of bottom end and vocals. The guitar sounds great before 4 minutes. Just screaming. Waves of sound after 5 minutes. "Stairs" has this melody that slowly swirls in a powerful atmosphere. The music then stops late and you can hear someone walking up the stairs then opening a door. "Eat The Distance" has some interesting sounds on it including Didjeridoo. Just listen. Vocal sounds join in around 2 1/2 minutes. "Vavonia Part II" kicks in with a full sound before a minute. The mood continues to change until acoustic guitar comes in after 3 minutes. Vocals 4 minutes in. Vocal melodies 6 minutes in. "Horizons" is a soothing song to end the album. Acoustic guitar and synths are joined by vocals after 2 1/2 minutes. Beautiful !

Easily 4 stars. Music to drift far away in.