Moonspell - Extinct

(CD Album Review)

****

Moonspell unleash a Gothic Masterpiece

Having been together now since 1993 Moonspell have been together long enough to know what works and what doesn’t. They have gone through their “experimental” phases. What the band have delivered her with their eleventh full length album is the band doing what they are known and loved for. 'Extinct' is a tightly knit package of beautifully melodic metal with tons of atmosphere and soaring choruses that U2 dream of writing (Don’t give me that look they were good once!).

The main point to make about the album is that the poorer songs are actually at the beginning I think opener 'Breathe' and he title track although not bad songs really just set the tone. When we get to the brilliant 'Domina' is when the band really spread their wings so to speak.

The album perfectly mixes wonderful atmospheres and melodies into their haunting, mix. The word Gothic as cliché as it is really does sum the band up nicely. I mean you conjure up all these wonderful images when listening to the album. For instance listen to the melancholy and reflective 'The Future is Dark', it's quite brilliant.

Sound wise you get flashes of everything from Paradise lost to Sisters of Mercy to 90’s era Depeche Mode. There’s a great use of synth’s and mellow sections and then out of nowhere you get a crushing section to remind you that you are still listening to a Metal album! Over the course of their career Moonspell haven’t really turned from their original course.

They have more continued to refine their sound and constantly improve on their skills. 'Extinct' will please new and old fans alike, it has so many great dynamics. This is a great album that fans of the band will lap up as well as serving as a great place to start for newcomers.

Review by Joe Denby