Ultimate Metal album review of ‘The Failing Light’ (2003 demo), October 2004
[View the article on Ultimate Metal's website here]
[Ultimate Metal]
With October rapidly approaching, and the last vestiges of summer rapidly spluttering from existence, this seems like an apt time to be reviewing the debut album from Season's End. Based in Hampshire, UK, the group play highly emotive gothic metal. Guitars courtesy of David Stanton are tuneful, with heavy moments and occasional acoustics, while much of the ever-present melody is held in the vocals and keys. The latter (from Dave Smith) are well placed throughout, at times showing complex lines that intertwine with the guitars, while at others playing a more straightforward role. Along with Becki Clark's Cello and Viola they flesh out the sound and give atmosphere. As well as the theatrical synths, piano is used in places for atmospheric passages and instrumental sections.
The vocals are another standout feature. Those of Becki are natural and warm, a very pleasant Soprano, while the David's singing is honest, and suits the music well. The combination of male and female vocals is extremely effective, with unforgettably spine-tingling melodies - just see "A Ghost In My Emotion". David's bass is powerful, augmenting the guitars to perfection, while the solid drumming of Paul White tends to be on the straightforward side, as the music requires. The rhythm section shows great awareness, flowing between dynamic extremes with ease.
A dark, downcast vein is expected with the gothic leanings, and it is one of The Failing Light's biggest strengths. The songs are far enough removed from the typical verse/chorus structure to be of some interest to select prog fans. This is topped of by good quality recording for a self-financed album, with well balanced mixing and a clear sound. The packaging is of a similarly high standard, with an eight-page colour booklet and excellent artwork. In essence, while self-released, this album is easily as professional as many label financed CDs. The Failing Light is a very impressive album, well worth the attention of any gothic metal/rock fans, and many others besides. I look forward to hearing further work from Season's End.
7 out of 10
Russell Garwood of Ultimate Metal
http://www.ultimatemetal.com
