AUTUMN LEAVES
The second and, sadly, final release by AUTUMN LEAVES picks up where the former left off. From the moment the opening storm of Melodic Death Metal comes roaring forth I was already depressed that the band never continued on. The refinement of style and fluidity is evident at once on As Night Conquers Day. Bottoming out with heavy rhythms and thundering drums, the band's sound is sharp with clarity and thick to the core. The abrasiveness heard on Embraced By The Absolute is slightly smoothed out but by no means eliminated. Through all the listening analysis one might do while comparing the band's two releases, the end result is that both are quite similar, with this one winning favor with me slightly for its more streamlined continuity.If you've read my review of the Embraced By The Absolute, you'll get a fair idea of how this one sounds so dissecting it probably isn't necessary. The band showcase 10 tracks of emboldened melodious Death Metal with characteristic thrashy, speed-laden parts and some fierce breakdowns. The impressive leadwork is once again present as well. One track in particular, "Resigning From LIfe" seems to have been created to allow for this element to bask in its own light. On all other tracks AUTUMN LEAVES are forceful yet intricate and patient and I can only ponder where they'd be at had they survived past this album. I am very sorry they did not.
As Night Conquers Day is essential to anyone who cares anything about good Melodic Death Metal. A killer release like this should not go unlistened!
John's rating: 7.5
