So. Slowmotion Apocalypse. For me a completely unknown Italian band formed from the ashes of the hardcore bands Slapsticks and To Die For (whomever they were - certainly not Finnish teen emo-metal band To Die For). To be honest, I don’t really see so much quality coming out from Italy, so I was a bit sceptical at the proclaimed ‘for fans of At the Gates and The Haunted’, two insanely cool bands. At least I knew what to expect: Swedish melodic metal.

I have to say though… This is the best metal band I have ever heard come out of Italy. Obviously, taking my earlier comment into account, this says little, so let me rephrase: This band completely crushes a large part of the Swedish melodic metal scene. It almost seems like these Italians are more Swedish than the Swedes.

Nearly every song on this album raises hackles on my skin, a true and very rare sign of quality for me. Kickass supertight midtempo drumming technical, surefooted stringcraft and vocals that fit the music. I didn’t like the vocals much at the start but much of my initial dismay was lindered by guest vocalists (f.ex. At the Gates ex-screamer Tomas Lindberg – surprise). And soon everything just fit the soundscape. And now, after listening constantly to ‘Obsidian’ for a week, I proclaim this band to be completely and utterly great at what they do. But others have done it as well before, mind.

Just hear ‘Back from the Dead’ and feel the superb quality of the composition. It has it damn near everything I love about metal: great midtempo section, a groovy lead, something like a depressing slow Hypocrisy feel and then a typical At the Gates ending. And afterwards, elated, you are presented with yet other exclusive slices of metal heaven.

For fans of At the Gates and The Haunted indeed! If you liked ‘Slaughter of the Soul’ and older The Haunted material, you will love this. Disclaimer: This is an album that grew from mediocre to sublime in a matter of days for me. Listen to it more than one time, and you will be amazed. Also don't expect many new ideas, just old ones performed perfectly. This is something any self respecting metal fan must have. Enjoy! (or get some music taste!).