HOW THE WORLD CAME TO AN END

The Norwegian metal scene of the 90's is one of the most interesting in rock history because of the total transformation of many black metal bands into quality avant garde/prog artists. Manes in such a band that chose the lonely path of artistic expression, obviously not caring about what their fans might think. In return, fans completely hated this sudden change of style, unable to accept this ''betrayal'' of their underground black metal heroes. And what a beautiful betrayal this is! An extraordinary mix of metal/rock sounds with electronica, trip hop and ambient music which will blow away every open minded music lover!Beware: You don't have to like electronica or metal music to like this one! ''H.T.W.C.T.A.E'' is a completely unique hybrid that one should listen and evaluate for himself/herself. I don't like hip hop but I totally worship the -condemned by fans - ''Come to pass'' which is a .... hip hop song! If I should find some similarities with other bands, they would be the obvious, the mighty Ulver (closer to the Perdition City) and In the woods, especially in the more psychedelic tracks (I watch you fall, Last lights). Still Manes is different. Unfortunately, they never managed to gain recognition like Ulver or Arcturus and still remain relatively unknown. I suppose that this album is doomed to be disliked even by prog fans, though that this is hardcore modern prog! But It will definetely reward those few daring listeners who are willing to discover Manes' dark and powerful artistic vision.