Winds - Prominence And Demise

by Peter Allison

published: 26 / 10 / 2008

Label: The End
Format: CD

Excellent third album from Norwegian group Winds, who merge metal with classical music to superb effect

Review

Every so often, a band appears that defy definition, and shortly afterwards they are followed by shameless below-par imitations. Thankfully, Winds are precisely not that. While comparisons between Winds and Apocalyptica will no doubt be made, this does not in any shape or form denigrate them, or the quality of their fusion of metal with classical music, for what they have accomplished here is an impressive and note-worthy album. Combining riveting guitar work, sublime drumming, and a consistently excellent bass line, all of which acts as a foundation that the music builds upon to create a truly fantastic album. Despite my own favourable opinion of this album, I, however, suspect it will not appeal to everyone’s taste, especially those looking for music to use as a precursor for a night out; as this album comprises of very long tracks (some in excess of 7 minutes). In fact, I would recommend, not listening to this music at that time. Far better to sit back, and simply allow yourself to be absorbed by the music on offer. As an aside, I also have to commend Winds for the exquisite artwork decorating the front of their album. All too often the visual presentation is paid token appreciation with digital artwork that has little to do with the album concept, but here the ethereal artwork lends itself beautifully to the core themes at work within 'Prominence and Demise'. Overall, this is an excellent album from Winds, demonstrating that Metal in a Classical music structure is not a gimmick, and is instead a viable technique warranting further exploration.

Track Listing:-

1 Universal Creation Army
2 Distorted Dimensions
3 The Grand Design
4 When The Dream Of Paradise Died
5 Fall And Rise
6 The Darkest Path
7 Convictionc And Contradictions
8 Where The Cold Winds Blow
9 The Last Line