For myself, and as I'm sure many others will agree "Widow's Weeds" (1998) and "Beyond the Veil" (1999) marked the pinnacle of not only Tristania's career, but the genre of gothic metal itself. The sheer beauty, drama and intricacy of the composition combined with the perfection of the atmosphere is simply hard to surpass.
Since those classic albums Tristania has undergone major changes, notably the departure of Morten Veland and then Vibeke Stene. Changes such as these have divided the fanbase, and the differing styles they've experimented have furthered this division.
Despite such divided views, I find it's exactly that - the band's experimentation, and an unwillingness to fit into any box which makes Tristania one of the edgiest and most interesting bands in the scene. Whilst the golden age of gothic metal may have passed with many bands moving towards a generic, often bland sound, Tristania have continued to stand apart from the crowd and with boundless creativity they've succeeded in making some of the most sensual, dark and above all unique soundscapes I've ever listened to.
I give most modern gothic metal albums one spin, then they're just left to gather dust. Maybe I'll import them to my computer, they'll get transferred to my iPod and the odd song will get a listen if it comes on shuffle and I'm carrying so much shopping that I can't skip it. "Darkest White" however, has already become a staple of my voluntary listening habits.
Despite such divided views, I find it's exactly that - the band's experimentation, and an unwillingness to fit into any box which makes Tristania one of the edgiest and most interesting bands in the scene. Whilst the golden age of gothic metal may have passed with many bands moving towards a generic, often bland sound, Tristania have continued to stand apart from the crowd and with boundless creativity they've succeeded in making some of the most sensual, dark and above all unique soundscapes I've ever listened to.
I give most modern gothic metal albums one spin, then they're just left to gather dust. Maybe I'll import them to my computer, they'll get transferred to my iPod and the odd song will get a listen if it comes on shuffle and I'm carrying so much shopping that I can't skip it. "Darkest White" however, has already become a staple of my voluntary listening habits.
A diverse range of influences spanning the entire spectrum of metal are weaved masterfully together. There are few moments giving the impression of Placebo trying to be metal, but without the whiny voice (Not meant as a bad thing, just something I never expected I'd be saying about Tristania).
Requiem comes across as very accessible, but containing shifts and subtle nuances to keep it interesting. There's also the killer chorus that will keep drawing the listener back for more. This takes us onto the subject of Mariangela's outstanding vocals.
Upon first hearing her on the album "Rubicon" I thought she was OK, but that was it. Like other bands which have recruited new vocalists, we've been disappointed on their first run, but second time around we're really blown away. Maybe it's to do with the voice and the band finding each other and working together in the best possible way. Here that seems to be what has happened, her voice has a soaring quality, gliding over the music with great power, precision and beauty. Let's not forget the male vocals which are outstanding as usual.
The production here isn't overly polished, avoiding a manufactured sound. The way it's mixed does really compliment the music. The heavy guitar tones have a caustic quality which is a really nice dynamic when contrasted with the smooth vocals and streamlined composition.
This album is really like a journey into the darkest white. I might even describe it as such if that wasn't the title. Dark, chilling, desolate, harsh and heavenly. I need to listen to it again.
9.5/10