CD REVIEW: TO/DIE/FOR – Cult

Label: Massacre Records

Release Date: September 18, 2015

Rating: 8.5/10

Reviewed by: Todd “Toddstar” Jolicoeur

Melancholic gothic metal?  Sure, I’ll take it for a spin… and enjoy it.  The latest from Finnish rockers To/Die/For is an 8-track disc that features a cool cover song and some great playing.  “In Black” opens the disc and the charging guitars take the lead and get this release off on the right foot.  The lead vocals of Jape Perätalo are a bit moody and ethereal, but they mix well with the guitars.  Lead single “Screaming Birds” brings a bigger vocal sound to the disc with full chorus and vocals that run from mellow to excited, without becoming too heavy.  The guitar work from Juppe Sutela and Eza Viren bring this track to life.  “Mere Dream” is a beautiful ballad that showcases the raspy vocals and the way they twist and turn around piano and keyboards.  The addition of a guitar solo at the bridge gives this song added punch without dialing up the intensity.  Paula Abdul’s “Straight Up” is a killer cover that captures the vibe of the original while putting a metal spin on the song and is one of the standout tracks on the disc.  The vocals are a cool blend of raspy heavy metal and pop infused female vocals that join the fray at the chorus.

“Unknown Ill” swirls a heavy keyboard sound into the mix and helps offset the heavier guitars and bass lines on this song.  The vocals are a true demonstration of the melancholy flavor of the disc.  The lyrics add a moodier vibe to the song.  “You” features more chugging guitars and simple keyboards, but really gives Matti Huopainen’s drums room to run with killer support from Samuel Schildt on bass.  The vocals are simpler, but fit the mood of the track.  “Let It Bleed” is another rocker that leans heavily on the rhythm section while featuring the vocals prominently in the mix.  The groove of the track is solid rock that keeps a steady tempo and has a catchy vibe at the chorus.  Disc closer “End Of Tears” brings the high energy and groove to a halt with this moody rocker that seems darker and heavier than any other track on the collection.

​​Tracklisting: In Black – Screaming Birds – Unknown Ill – Mere Dream – You – Straight Up – Let It Bleed – End Of Tears

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Category: CD Reviews