Album Review: Godthrymm - Reflections
Reviewed by Neil Bolton
If you have any knowledge or interest in the pedigree of guitar player Hamish Glencross you will most likely be a fan of his legendary former band My Dying Bride (amongst others). If this is the case you will also have a hope and longing for an album that has his distinct melancholy, gothic guitar sound.
You’re in luck, “Reflections” has a gloriously bleak sound; similar but in no way cloning
My Dying Bride.
Glencross has been joined by drummer Shaun Taylor-Sleels, who also had a short stint in My Dying Bride. Bass player Bob Corolla joined the band once the recording of 'Reflections’ had been completed. With Hamish now taking on vocal duties, a perfect piece of work has
been created.
Dark, metal and gloomy guitars slowly invite you to dive into this album, and once there you will rest and bathe in the albums sound. Lie back, get comfortable and let the music caress and comfort you. Excellent work from both bass and guitar creates a sound that is distinctly British and compelling.
Eight tracks give the listener a good amount of premium somber tunes, always competent, always metal. Ethereal backing vocals on several tracks fit perfectly along with several songs over the seven minute mark. These compositions do not drag. They are mournful, they are moody, they are beautiful. You will get all you hoped for with this album.
I witnessed Godthrymm a couple of years ago with a different line up from this. And this work is far superior . With excellent album artwork by Brian D’Agosta of Gostworks Art. It was recorded by Nathan Bailey and Mastered by Mark Midgley. A partnership creating something that will not be left to one side when this review is complete, I am certain I will be visiting this several times over the next few weeks and months. Most likely at the end of the year when the obligatory top ten of the year rears its head.
Godthrymm release 'Reflections' via Profound Lore on February 14th.
