Maximum Metal Rating Legend

One-man outfit Violet Cold have really kind of shifted their sound with "Magic Night". 2015's "Desperate Dreams" was a further step into the post black metal genre. "Magic Night" differentiates from their prior album with a lack of vocals, more haunting compositions, and an overall more fluid effort.

Opening track "Everything You Can Imagine Is Real..." is a very subtle yet well-woven track that kicks the album off in grand style. Beautifully layered guitars and synthesizers come together to create a track that is perfect so close to the start of winter here in the States. The cold, dank atmosphere draws you in and holds you in its chilly grasp while plucking at your mind and conscious. As the album continues to move on, the tracks vary between heavier offerings like "Magic Night" and "Silver Moon (Pt. II)" and more serene tracks like "For Amelie (Polish Lullaby)" and "Drowned in the Lights". I've found myself gravitating more and more towards this type of black metal lately. While it eschews the elements of traditional black metal, it still holds to the ethos of giving the listener an experience that is immersive and chilly.

That being said, this album is one that I can throw on in whatever mood I'm in and have it suit me perfectly. The album is great through and through and is one that I continually come back to again and again. So, if you're looking for music to stir up the seasonal feelings, have something on in the background or looking for something a little different from the norm, I strongly recommend "Magic Night". The album is a great release and Violet Cold is a band you should definitely keep an ear on. Plus the band is on Bandcamp and you can directly support the band by picking up this or any other of their releases.