CoC : Throne of Chaos - Pervertigo : Review

Throne of Chaos - _Pervertigo_
(Spikefarm / Century Media, 2002)
by: Quentin Kalis (8.5 out of 10)

It is often tempting for the critic to simply slot bands into neat, pre-determined categories such as technical death or symphonic black metal. But on occasion, an album will be released which will defy such easy classification. _Pervertigo_ is one such album. A wide range of influences make their presence felt -- encompassing a wide range of genres, including heavy metal, death metal and rock --, as well as bands such as Dream Theatre and In Flames, yet without sounding generic or a copy of any other band. Some of the more unimaginative critics might lump Throne of Chaos together with fellow Finns Children of Bodom and Kalmah, but apart from mixing heavy metal with death, they have nothing else in common. The range of influences might account for the somewhat schizophrenic nature of _Pervertigo_ -– the lyrics are somewhat dismal, yet the music is often uplifting. The album is infused with memorable hooks and melodies, and the powerful clean vocals provided courtesy of Niklas Isfeldt (Dream Evil) driven by a clear and strong production are amongst the best that I've heard from any band that also uses growls. Highly recommended.

(article published 9/7/2003)