Omnium Gatherum - New World Shadows [2011]

New World Shadows is one of the most popular metal albums this year, which is somewhat strange considering that the band has back catalogue of similar albums and this isn't exactly doing anything to invigorate the genre of melodic death metal. However, I can really see why people are taking to it so much, as Omnium Gatherum mostly delivers top notch material with this release. It's a super polished experience, but its scope is wide and it has the all-encompassing nature to surpass the "keyboredom" that the genre too often succumbs to. There are lots of keyboards and commercial-sounding melodies, but these usually serve to make the songs a bit more memorable. Nothing on New World Shadows is extraordinary, but with how well-executed the album is, it may be worth seeking out.

That being said, opener "Everfields" is rather brilliant. One of the two nine-minute pieces here, the song thrives mostly on a consuming atmosphere rather than the music itself, though that manages to be catchy as well. The followup "Ego" is more of a "radio" tune though; the chorus degenerates into silly, Bodomish fare. The title track is notable for the chanting clean vocal part at the end and cool keyboard usage. "Soul Journeys" has an entertaining main riff and some interesting mellow parts. "Nova Flame" seems to be a favorite among many, but I'm not sure about this one; it just lays low and never really grabs your attention. "An Infinite Mind" is spectacular on the other hand, with the most memorable chorus on the album, not to mention some of the best riffs. "Watcher of the Skies" is a great instrumental and "The Distance" is a decent track, but "Deep Cold" is an uneventful and anticlimatic closer.

Unfortunately, New World Shadows bears a thrill that wears off all too quickly. After three or four listens, the album becomes difficult to listen to entirely. The music itself is occasionally great, but lacks the staying power of the best releases in the genre. It isn't very original, but for fans of melodeath, it's worth a spin or two.

   Overall: 7/10 (Good)