Torn Beyond Reason can best be described as an unforgettable journey into the deepest depths of human emotion. The bleak chord progressions, beautifully poetic lyrics, and unavoidable feeling of helplessness are inescapable throughout this near-forty minute album, making it an observation that is simultaneously disturbing and beautiful - if that's even possible, of course. With Torn Beyond Reason, Woods of Desolation have crafted one of the best albums in the depressive black metal genre; this is an absolutely mandatory purchase for anyone who enjoys black metal with heavy doses of melancholy. An album as dark, poignant, and bleak as this one obviously isn't for the faint of heart, but it is an ideal listen for any depressive black metal fan on a cold and rainy evening.
Woods of Desolation draw heavily from the shoegaze-influenced style of depressive black metal on this album. The music can get pretty heavy at times, but it always maintains a melancholic vibe that's accentuated by razor-thin guitar riffs, tortured vocals, and epic synthesizer passages. Even though there are a few soft, almost post-rock sounding sections, Torn Beyond Reason has a very firm foot in raw black metal, so don't expect a whole lot of quiet passages. The genius of this observation ultimately lies in its ability to incorporate subtle beauty into raging black metal madness, and (even more importantly) do it with the level of success and precision that Woods of Desolation have done here. Not only are they gifted as musicians, but they are also some of the most talented songwriters in modern black metal. Just listen to the absolutely stunning instrumental track "November" to understand the diversity of Woods of Desolation - although very simple and to the point, it's one of the most beautiful songs I've heard in a while. Sheer genius.
The somewhat rough and unique production took a few spins to completely understand, but now I have a difficult time imagining Torn Beyond Reason any other way. The raw and unpolished sound suits the music perfectly, and the spot-on mix (the keyboards are in the absolutely perfect range) is excellent. I think the rather lo-fi sound helps accentuate the melancholic atmosphere even further.
Torn Beyond Reason is a good example of depressive black metal done right. The compositions are dynamic, the musicianship is tight, the production is raw and powerful, and a dose of originality sets Woods of Desolation apart from the rest. Anyone with even a passive interest in depressive black metal should be sure to check this one out - this is not only one of 2011's best, but also one of the genre's best. 4.5 stars is the least I can give to this stunning masterpiece.
Track Listing:
1. Torn Beyond Reason
2. Darker Days
3. An Unbroken Moment
4. The Inevitable End
5. November
6. Somehow...
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