REVIEW OF THE ALBUM "ASCENSION" - PARADISE LOST - (METAL)

REVIEW OF THE ALBUM "ASCENSION" - PARADISE LOST - (METAL)

Before starting this review, a word of warning: If you don't like Gothic Metal, it's best not to read on. (Although, who knows? This release might surprise you...) With that warning out of the way, we can begin by saying that Paradise Lost returns to their 90s roots with a release reminiscent of their famous "Icon" era.

It's a slow, generally leisurely album, but interspersed with more dynamic sections that enliven the listening experience—although sometimes these sections make the listener wait a bit before they can be fully appreciated. But in the end, it's worth it. The inclusion of well-executed tempo changes demonstrates remarkable compositional care.

Personally, I enjoyed the solo work; Greg Mackintosh's skill shines through with numerous harmonic-based solos and a melodramatic touch, as is typical of his now somewhat criticized career.

Vocally, while Nick Holmes showcases his more guttural side quite a bit on this occasion, he also frequently employs his aggressive-melodic register. Regardless of the style he chooses, Holmes' voice always sounds like a lament, as if something inside him were breaking. The keyboards give it an epic and legendary feel, and the production is simply flawless.

We are undoubtedly dealing with an album that is both dark and melodic, and which has generally received quite positive reviews in the media. Sad and heartfelt melodies—which always denote that honesty and sincerity that is so appreciated—interspersed with doom-laden sections, along with the aforementioned tempo changes, encourage us to listen further, to see what surprises the album holds. And personally, it has not disappointed me.

We can distinguish several stages in the history of Paradise Lost, but as far as they're generally concerned, "Ascension" is probably one of their best works. At least, from my point of view.