CoC : Acrid Semblance - From the Oblivion : Review

Acrid Semblance - _From the Oblivion_
(Demonstealer Records, 2006)
by: Quentin Kalis (7.5 out of 10)

Acrid Semblance are an Indian entrant to the Finnish school of school of death metal, as epitomised by Children of Bodom and Kalmah. The music is predictably accessible, following a conventional verse-chorus-verse structure and overflowing with upbeat melodies despite the dour themes. The vocals are less than stellar, and the drums pedestrian, providing little more than the necessary rhythmic backing; but I imagine this is so as to not distract from the more than competent twin guitarists, who are clearly the focus of the band. The twin guitar assault displays a great love of leads, but they are never allowed to override a good song, refusing to descend into Yngwie Malmsteen territory. Although there are sections that border on cheesy, like their cousins in Suomi, this actually serves to endear the band to the listener. Those who appreciated _Something Wild_ or _Swamplord_ will find a lot to enjoy here.

Contact: http://www.acridsemblance.com

(article published 8/3/2007)