Darkane “Rusted Angel” CD

While it wasn't necessarily the most original sounding album in the world when it first hit the streets, I have to say that "Rusted Angel" (originally released in 1998 by W.A.R. Music/Relapse Records, though it was reissued several years ago by Regain Records as well), the debut full-length from Sweden's Darkane, has really stood the test of time exceptionally well, and every time I look back on it I realize more and more what an incredible piece of work it was. In the late-90's it seemed to be fairly standard melodic Swedish death metal, but that's just not the case at all, as the hyperactive sense of frenetic energy and technical, thrash-laden riffing was really heading in a more aggressive and explosive direction. I always fucking loved the drumming on this thing, and Peter Wildoer's exceptional performance is still top notch, knowing just when to step back into a basic beat or cut loose into some wildly flashy fills; and as the band's only album with Lawrence Mackrory on vocals (unfortunately), that surprisingly powerful mix of high-pitched sneering with hints of singing was ahead of the curve as well. But, as usual, it's the songwriting that really makes the difference, as there are some fucking classic songs here. Opener "Convicted" was always one of those songs that tore my head off right away, and I'll never forget it. The chorus to the title track is also incredible, as the singing is used perfectly to accentuate the tempo changes and melodies. And I really haven't even touched on the super tight guitar work, complete with complex rhythms and slick lead playing. I'm not entirely sure why, but the overall quality of the musicianship and songwriting herein seems to have gone vastly underappreciated in the years since the release of "Rusted Angel", which is a damn shame. Hopefully this will refresh some memories, as well as introducing younger listeners to an outright awesome album that certainly deserves more attention in the grand scheme of things...

Darkane "Convicted"
Darkane "July 1999"

Get It

Relapse Records
Amazon.com

Darkane's discography has since been somewhat inconsistent. I still don't really care for the follow-up, "Insanity", though I do rather enjoy "Expanding Senses" and "Layers of Lies". They've never fully recaptured the energy and memorability of their debut, but it seems that every other album is a bit more forceful and interesting somehow, so perhaps their latest, "Demonic Art" (due out this week, coincidentally) will be another keeper. I'll certainly check it out...