Finland's Ghost Brigade are very persistent with reminding the listener to not put a tag or try to classify their music. There's a good reason for that, as what they have on display here on IV-One With the Storm crosses many genres of heavy music, including death metal, gothic rock, post rock, and even a little prog. It's all quite melancholy, yet melodic, with a tune like "Wretched Blues" crossing over into all sorts of territories but still coming across as a cohesive piece of music. "Departures" however could easily find itself on alternative rock radio, as catchy, almost gothic style vocals soar over solid riffs and spooky keyboard embellishments. The mixing of hook laden melodic vocals with growls works to great effect on "Aurora", and the lengthy "Electra Complex" starts off a seemingly loving tribute to UK stalwarts Anathema before its crushing death metal/doom themed finale. The doom element continues on the menacing "Stones and Pillars", while "The Knife" is perhaps the most upbeat, straight on death metal track here, complete with monstrous growls, thunderous rhythms, and pulverizing guitar riffs. To add even more variety here, check out the other lengthy piece, "Long Way to the Graves", a melodic, melancholy slice of dreamy modern rock with metal elements.
There's some truly gorgeous moments to be experienced here, and while I would have liked some varied tempos from time to time (the album is a little one-note), the plethora of different vocal styles and brooding atmosphere is very well done. It's heavy, it's melodic, and most of all accessible. Check it out.
Track Listing
1. Wretched Blues
2. Departures
3. Aurora
4. Disembodied Voices
5. Electra Complex
6. Stones and Pillars
7. Anchored
8. The Knife
9. Long Way to the Graves
10. Elama On Tulta
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