CoC : Ensoph - Les Confessions du Mat : Review

Ensoph - _Les Confessions du Mat_
(No Brain, 1998)
by: Brian Meloon (8 out of 10)

Ensoph was formed from the ashes of Endaymynion [CoC #13] and have a similar -- but more refined -- sound. Overall, their sound is gloomy, comparable to doom bands like the Romanians Abigail [CoC #33] or God [CoC #38]. There are three tracks on this MCD, the first two clocking in at about eleven minutes each and the final track at five minutes. The music on the long songs varies between light sections which typically utilize clean guitar and lighter keyboard tones and heavier sections with crunching guitars and few (if any) keyboards, as well as sections showing characteristics of each. The band manages to keep the songs flowing, avoiding the monotony traps that similar bands sometimes fall into. They also use a variety of keyboard and guitar tones, as well as flutes and even an accordion. Each of the songs is layered, yet the parts fit together well, achieving a cohesive sound. The vocals vary between male and female clean vocals and the occasional black metal-style raspy vocals. While both vocalists are good, the male vocalist's accent is more obvious due to his lower pitch. The playing is good from each of the members, though none of the material is particularly technical. The production is somewhat drab, but this fits the music and adds to its gloomy feel. Overall, this is a very impressive offering, as it features a unique and original sound. Highly recommended for fans of gloomy music.

Contact: Cristian Luise c/o No Brain, Via Scortegara 135,

(article published 15/6/1999)

ALBUMS
1/14/2002	B Meloon	9	Ensoph - Bleeding Womb of Ananke