Maximum Metal Rating Legend

I was totally blown away by what I heard upon listening to 'Futility Report', the band's debut full-length album. Depressive black metal is melded with post black metal and Jazz to create a very unique musical palette. The black metal is cold and empty like a frozen wasteland while the post black metal is crisp and clean. Then comes the saxophone, yes I said saxophone. The jazzy tones of the saxophone take this album to a completely different level. I can see this being similar to some of Ulver's later material when they were moving more toward their experimental side. The whole album melds this different sound throughout, creating some truly unique and very evocative compositions. The vocals are a mix of classic and post black metal screams and wails and really compliment the different sounds the album showcases. The production is really well done, allowing everything to shine individually and as a cohesive unit as well. This isn't your typical black metal, so don't go in expecting angry bees and painful screams. The difference on this album is really refreshing and I cannot wait to see what is up next for White Ward.