CoC : Life Illusion - Into the Darkness of My Soul : Review

Life Illusion - _Into the Darkness of My Soul_
(Inner Voice Records, 2008)
by: Quentin Kalis (7 out of 10)

Life Illusion performs a downbeat and depressive form of black metal, largely generated through droning, repetitive riffs undergoing few changes and minimalist Burzum-esque drumming. (Vikernes' influence can also be heard in the riffs, but not to such an extent that it becomes an embarrassing rip-off.) Although repetitive riffing and minimal drumming is an inherent aspect of this sub-style of doom, the lack of variety in tempo renders it monotonous rather than hypnotic, making it impossible to listen to in one sitting. In smaller doses, it is possible to appreciate his numbers; in larger doses, it is numbing. Great attention is paid to atmosphere, with blackened aggression a distant second. The overall effect is of depression, with anger bubbling just below the surface, ready to explode at any time --think of a volcano under pressure. Although this sub-genre is still fairly recent, it is not so recent as to not possess a distinct sound, and those familiar with Leviathan, Xasthur et al will know what to expect.

Contact: http://www.innervoicerecords.se

(article published 8/1/2009)