After a couple changes in the vocal dept, Sweden’s Candlemass one of the originators of the Doom Metal sound (alongside Chicago’s Trouble), returns with their messiah. Since they last made original music with singer Messiah Marcolin, they are back with their classic formula found on highly regarded albums like “Ancient Dreams” and "Tales of Creation".

Candlemass’ Doom Metal is a mix of Black Sabbathy guitar riffs with a very distinctive tone, mid paced drum beats and slower plodders, and the somber yet strong voice of Messiah. Vocals are clean and clear, projected in a way that gives you the feeling of impending doom. Take the haunting lead off track ‘Black Dwarf’ and ‘Seven Silver Keys’, both mid paced stompers that gives the listener a clear indication as to Candlemass’ unmistakable sound. Another element to their music that makes it distinctive is how the guitar leads are used. Each track features plenty of lead work which is an important characteristic to each song. Given the guitar tone and the appropriate notes for the song at hand, for example ‘Witches’ which is one of the strongest groovers in their catalogue, a crunchy riff is accentuated by catchy lead notes. ‘The Man Who Fell from the Sky’ is an appropriate, and just long enough instrumental that precedes ‘Witches’. ‘Born in a Tank’ follows and keeps the momentum going nicely. This release is one of the more upbeat for the band seeing the drums driving the tracks more so than other albums.

Aside from the poorly designed cover, overall I can’t find anything negative to say, Candlemass have retained their sound and style and created a solid new release that does not sound as if they are just going through the motions for the sake of "reunion" sake.