Band: Siebenbürgen

Title: Revelation VI

Label: Massacre Records

Distribution:

Release date: 13/06/2008

Review: CD

Siebenbürgen was formed in 1994 by vocalist / bass player Marcus Ehlin, whom might also be known from Devlin. Revelation VI is the band’s sixth full length studio album, and at the same time it is the first for Massacre Records after a long marriage with the Austrian label Napalm Records and after a short break (read: the band split up for a while). And I have to admit: I never liked Siebenbürgen’s music, so I did not really look forward to this new album. Revelation VI, however, does surprise me. A lot… The concept still is the same: melodic and pretty ‘easy-listening’ Black Metal with elements of Gothic Metal, Folk and classical Heavy Metal, coming with a clean sound and every possible cliché you might know. It has always been this way, and this time it isn’t really that different. Yet on the other hand, there are a few positive evolutions: the music sounds more mature than ever before, the compositions are much, much stronger, and the almost ‘poppy’ approach made place for a heavier and more intensifying one. No, Revelation VI isn’t a renewing release, nor is it such a graceful blessing to my ears. But in comparison to any former album, this one has evolved so gracefully. Melody and aggressions still go perfectly hand in hand, the Gothic elements (some keyboard lines, the female vocals, piano-intros and so on) do still remind me to bands as Dismal Euphony and Cradle Of Filth, and the variation in tempo and melody is still of importance too. So it means that every ‘early’ fan will be pleased by this album. Yet I guess, no, I’m sure, Siebenbürgen will also please several of those who weren’t that convinced in the past. …like me… Not a killer-album, yet certainly Siebenbürgen’s strongest album to date! Additional info: the album lasts for fifty seven (!) minutes and features a guest appearance by Andy LaRocque.

81/100

Ivan Tibos.