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By JEFF MAKI
Germany's Disillusion is something of a cross between fellow Germans Rammstein and the rock/pop style of Depeche Mode. Their debut release, Back To Times of Splendor (2004 Metal Blade), was one of the most successful debuts in German metal history. The new album, Gloria, is an experimental, highly ambitious recording with hints of genius. The band reportedly worked on the album for 18 months, which shows in its exciting, unpredictable nature.
First, let's get something straight: Though this album certainly contains some metal moments (loud, downtuned guitars, distortion, double bass), I wouldn't necessarily classify Disillusion as a metal band. Lead vocalist Schmidt's voice covers a wide range, from a distorted Al Jourgensen (Ministry) style to Till Lindemann of Rammstein to a more new wave or alternative-type of soulful singing.
The opening song, “The Black Sea,” is perhaps the most metal track of the album. From here, Gloria takes the listener on a journey into experimentation. The album's anthem and first video, “Don't Go Any Further,” features Schmidt babbling in a strange conversation before erupting into the chant of “Don't Go Any Further!” “Avalanche” is a slower, mildly depressing song even more reminiscent of Rammstein with Schmidt's passionate vocals. Songs such as “Save the Past” are industrial-tinged alternative rockers. Think the catchy hooks and melodies of the aforementioned Depeche Mode but with heavy guitars.
These are just a few examples to give you an idea of the concoction that Disillusion has stirred up here. Albums like these are hard to put into words. You just have to hear it for yourself. Gloria will appeal to industrial/goth rock fans and surely fans of alternative rock and metal. If given the chance by the various music outlets, Disillusion has enough pop sensibility amidst Gloria's deep experimentation to be a mainstream success.
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