Sorathian Dawn - Sorathian Dawn

Sorathian Dawn are a blackened death metal band from Australia who released their self-titled debut album back in March of this year. Most of the band members are involved in Ouroboros, as well as a scattering of other active groups, so I don't really know if this is a one-off side project or a new main band for those involved.

What I can say is that I hope they continue with this group, because I really enjoy the sound they have captured. Sorathian Dawn walk that fine line between the meat of death metal and the sharpness of black metal, just as they flirt with melodic elements while still maintaining their speed and aggression. Dual guitar riffs gallop along at a brisk pace, with propulsive drumming and violent vocals that fill the whole record with an overwhelming sense of hostility. The band does allow for some tempo changes, but they never get mired down in the slower passages.

Thrown in with the aggressive assault is just enough melody to make the whole affair flow smoothly. This is a stripped-down melodic sensibility in the vein of old At the Gates or maybe Dissection, and like those bands it really finds the sweet spot.

I'd highly recommend this album, and I truly hope to see more material from this band in the future.

Grade: A-
Sharp, compelling blackened death metal with just a dash of melody.