Band
Moonspell
Title
Memorial
Type
LP/EP
Company
SPV/Steamhammer
YOR
2006
Style
Gothic/Symphonic
Popular Reviews
Moonspell - Memorial - 2006 - SPV
Track Listing 1. In Memoriam 2. Finisterra 3. Memento Mori 4. Sons Of Earth 5. Blood Tells 6. Upon The Blood Of Man 7. At The Image Of Pain 8. Sanguine 9. Proliferation 10. Once It Was Ours! 11. Mare Nostrum 12. Luna 13. Best Forgotten 14. Atlantic [Bonus Track]
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A couple of months ago I was drooling over the sample of 'Finisterra' I got to hear online. Could it really be happening? I asked myself. Is Moonspell going to return to the mighty force that brought us Wolfheart and Irreligous? It's been many years since we have had our souls darkened by that Moonspell. With many albums exploring a more Gothic and clean vocal approach until we saw a slight return to form with Darkness And Hope.
Apparently the new deal with SPV has rejuvenated Moonspell and compelled them to record their best effort yet. Fernando is once again spewing forth his brand of Portugal death/black vocals for almost the entire album. As evident with the harsh and invigorating 'Finisterra'. Thats not to say he is not using the Gothic vocals and whispers we have become accustomed to. Now they are showcased sparingly and create a bone chilling atmosphere, 'Memento Mori' being the prime example. The heaviness and dark imagery are back in every song and permeated by pounding doubles and thick memorable guitar riffs. Just listen to the infectious guitars in 'Upon The Blood Of Men'. They have even incorporated some great instrumentals that add to the overall presence of evil.
This album could have easily been the follow up to Wolfheart but instead brings them full circle and back onto the path of metal glory. Memorial ends up being a blend of the best albums they have released the aforementioned Wolfheart and Irreligous coupled with the best elements of Type O Negative and Cradle Of Filth. Not a day goes by this disc doesn't find it's way into one of my CD players. Memorial is Moonspells finest hour...this is the release Moonspell fans have been waiting for!
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