I have much respect for Alex Krull and Atrocity. Few metal bands have dared change as much over the years as they have. Death, gothic, pop, rock, 80's covers, you name it, they've been there.

Atrocity has decided that it's time to get the incense sticks and a pot of tea out. Alex has drafted his sister, Yasmin, and thrown a bunch of oriental sounds into the game. Yes, you will find bongo drums here!

The 'metal' in Ethno Metal isn't actually that audible anywhere on the platter. The song Transilvania is the most metal induced piece, The Other World has a bit too, other than that, it's all very Zen and one with the earth. Zitars, flutes, acoustic guitars and stuff, you catch the drift.

It's alright. It's not fantastic. Not at all. The element of surprise is on Atrocity's side at first, but it soon wears off and the tunes become a tad boring - especially when you've listened to the album a few times.

Nice try, but it doesn't really give me the goosebump I'd be needing to give this a high grade.