Catamenia - Cavalcade

These Finnish troops are up to release number 9, yes 9 albums in, most of the same record label, so why has not many folks heard of them? What do these guys offer in 2010? Melodic-death in the vein of later Sentenced, a bit of mid-period In Flames, not bad I guess, but there is a simple lack of originality it has to be said upon my first listen. I was not blown away. However, upon subsequent spins, it is an album that would sit comfortably if it were playing in the background, but I would not necessarily ask for it! It is certainly not clear who is the main vocalist, you have harsh vocals, clean vocals and low grunts…I leave that to your imagination and research, but it is a little tame vocally, a bit too “nice” in places. Not surprising is the guest appearance on ‘Blood Trials’ of Poisonblack’s Ville (as they are similar sounding bands too) and fellow countrymen. The undertone of gothic elements breaks up the boredom somewhat whilst managing to create depth to the arrangements that do not really go anywhere on their own. I do get a sense of deja-vu and spot which song that riff or melody is from. It tries to be gloomy and grim but it does need some balls. The Megadeth cover is good, again, a bit of a limp lettuce. By all accounts this band used to be more on the extreme side of metal, I would like to hear that, the current day Catamenia are just too much in the background for their own good.

For what the album is, it is a good listen, it is just not fresh enough to hearten my taste buds and make me want more even though the musicians are diligent and talented.

1. Blood Trials
2. Cavalcade
3. The Path That Lies Behind Me
4. Silence
5. Quality Of Sadness
6. Post Mortem
7. The Vulture’s Feast
8. A Callous Mind
9. Reincarnation
10. Angry Again (cover Megadeth)


Massacre Records
Reviewer: twansibon
Apr 24, 2010
Next review: Obscure Infinity – Into The Depths Of Infinity

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