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By JEFF MAKI
Switzerland's Samael is back with Solar Soul, three years after 2004's Reign of Light. The band started as a black metal band in the early '90s but has introduced more of an electronic sound with the last few releases in an effort to reinvent and separate themselves from the masses. This is their seventh full-length release, in addition to several EPs.
Described as return to their “metal” sound, Solar Soul is heavier than the experimental Reign of Light and nowhere near as pop-sounding. A full-on return to metal? The answer is no. While, Samael may have influenced the sound of Germany's industrial-goth act, Rammstein, the influence seems to be reversed now. Whatever the case, Solar Soul has a similar sound to Rammstein's 2001 album, Mutter. Guitarist/vocalist Vorph, has that Rammstein spoken vocal style in many songs and vocals by Tristania's Vibeke Stene on “Quasar Waves” build on the gothic nature. “Western Ground” or “Olympus” easily could be mistaken for Rammstein. The sound also can be compared to The Kovenant.
“Promised Land” and “Valkyries New Ride” are the strongest and most metal songs of the release, the current incarnation of Samael at it's best. Just enough electronics are incorporated, and the band steps to the front with metal guitars, choruses and lyrics. Solar Soul is an entertaining album, that's for sure, largely due to vocalist Vorph's thick accent and electronic surprises by Xy (programming, keyboards, percussion). Like Reign of Light, this is not for everyone, as many die-hard metal fans won't take to the electronic approach. But it should keep Samael on the radar a little longer still. |
