Another group that is not exactly unknown, but this being a solid release and their first in 10 years...
Arcturus is a group from Norway that
dropped its first LP in 1995...roughly 19 years before I even got
around to listening to a single one. While this is sad on my part,
it is worth noting that they have not released anything since 2005's
Sideshow Symphonies. Despite not being a long time fan, Arcturian
fills me with a sense of nostalgia. I get the same feeling from this
album that I did listening to my first Dark Tranquillity CD's in high
school. This may be in part due to the contributions from ICS
Vortex, a musician I have respected since my formative metal years
listening to Dimmu Borgir. While musicianship is a good indicator of
an album's quality, it is often these elusive, qualitative aspects
that will stand the test of time.
Even so, this is certainly not to say
that Arcturus is lacking in the songwriting department. To the
contrary, the many elements at play are quite remarkable. The
plentiful string arrangements throughout deserve particular
attention. Tracks like “Angst” and “Pale” showcase a level
of pomp that is dark and foreboding without a hint of cliche.
Similarly, the subtle synth and electronic elements take songs to new
heights of atmosphere and appeal as with “The Arcturian Sign,”
“The Journey,” and “Warp.”
While the guitars and drums often do
little more than help fill out the sound and create a heavier
aesthetic, they too have the occasional spotlight moment. “Game
Over” features a fittingly classy solo while “Crashland” and
the opening track have their share of thunderous double bass, tom
fills, and snare rolls. But the real accolades here go to Mr.
Vortex. I have often said that this man is possibly the most
talented vocalist in metal today, and his work here with Arcturus is
no less impressive than classic contributions to Death Cult
Armageddon or Borknagar's The Archaic Course. His voice is operatic
in its sheer power and command of melody without ever becoming
gimmicky. And while there are not many harsh vocals to be found in
Arcturian, Vortex's presence is no less imposing.
Alas, similar to Sigh's Graveward, the
only major problem I have with Arcturian as an album is that the
production feels rather flat in comparison to its lively
compositions. The more “classical” moments (i.e. the first half
of “Bane”) really pop, but it seems like things go wrong whenever
the guitars gain prominence. Crunchy distortion seems to bulldoze
peaks and valleys into a uniform plain that lacks grandiosity. The
drums feel particularly lackluster in these times, but I think that
the most egregious crime is that the stunning vocal performance is
not given the depth it deserves. With all of the posh ambiance, I
crave a sound that feels more nuanced and vital.
Fortunately, the clear passion and
professionalism exuding from the very pores of this LP are more than
enough to forgive issues in the studio. Advertised as “The new
magnum opus from Arcturus,” Arcturian is the rare comeback album
that delivers on its promise. Between the tasteful classical
elements and perhaps best vocal performance so far of 2015, one would
be foolish to pass on at least a few spins of this accomplished piece
of art. Coming May 8th, don't be one of those fools.
Enjoyability=8.7
Musicianship=8.9
Innovation=9.3
Overall=9.1
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