CoC : Rome - Confessions d'un Voleur d'Ames : Review

Rome - _Confessions d'un Voleur d'Ames_
(Cold Meat Industry, 2007)
by: Quentin Kalis (8.5 out of 10)

Whatever adjectives one may think of for Rome, lazy is not one of them. Last year saw the release of a mediocre debut EP, which was really more of a demo than anything else, quickly followed by a comparatively impressive full-length. Barely a year later, there is another full-length, which in a continuation of his upward trajectory is more impressive than its predecessor. Not that much has changed, as Rome still focuses on an idiosyncratic mix of apocalyptic folk, martial industrial and dark pop, but has refined this style, resulting in a superior listen.

Arguably, Rome has become more commercially orientated since the days of _Berlin_, as greater use is made of melody; but this also results in stronger and more potent material. In any case, this acts as the perfect contrast to his sardonic vocal performance and somewhat cynical lyrics ("You're an individual / Just like everyone else").

Detractors may point out that this is hardly a groundbreaking band, and they will be right. But Rome is not a soulless imitator, and he does do what he does with a passion, with his own idiosyncrasies shining through. In any case, I am hard-pressed to name a similar band of a higher -- or even equal -- calibre.

If Rome proceeds on the path he has embarked upon, then in time he will be sure to be remembered in the same breath as legends Sol Invictus and Ordo Rosarius Equilibrio.

Contact: http://www.coldmeat.se

(article published 24/8/2007)

ALBUMS
2/4/2007	Q Kalis	8	Rome - Nera
10/5/2006	Q Kalis	6	Rome - Berlin