Bloodred Hourglass is taking control of its future.
For its seventh album, We Should Be Buried Like This, the band, consisting of Jarkko Koukonen (vocals), Lauri Silvonen (guitar/vocals, Wolfheart), Jose Moilanen (bass), Jarkko Hyvönen (drums), Joni Lahdenkauppi (guitar, MyGrain, Thyrane) and Eero Silvonen (guitar) continues its partnership with the Out of Line Music label.
The band kicks off with The Crown Is Permanent, the first track that immediately showcases its modernity thanks to the mix, but also thanks to its energetic, staccato patterns that perfectly complement Jarkko‘s roars. The break allows for a moment of respite, but the rhythm quickly returns before We Should Be Buried like This takes its place, pouring out its riffs at full speed and adding sharp, slightly more old-school harmonics. The choruses offer slightly more accessible tones, but the sound becomes heavy again with the imposing break that leads into Royally Done, which allows us a moment of respite before offering its catchy riffing, a sort of signature of the band that wreaks havoc live. Sofia Ricar brings a touch of softness to the song before Chasing Shadows takes its place, first with danceable tones, then with the usual rage, finally blending the two energies for passages where the band will have no trouble controlling the crowds they will play in front of next. There are also a few parts with clean vocals, then Dance Of The Dandelions takes over with infectious energy that allows the musicians to let loose at a good pace, but also to include solos and explosive mosh parts along the way. The atmosphere calms down for God Has Favourites, offering a post-metal dynamic that fits perfectly with the band’s universe before returning to more lively riffing as usual, but giving the singer more striking tones. Mirage is initially brighter, but quickly becomes more aggressive, welcoming Aleksi Paasonen (Balance Breach) to reinforce the Metalcore side, then Lotta Ruutiainen (Luna Kills) for a more delicate touch, creating an intense final trio before handing over to Frail, which returns to a simpler approach where the leads run alongside the rhythm to give it that bright touch. We move on to Shun The Limelight, which returns to fierce double pedals and unifying choir passages, and despite a saving break, the rage remains intact until Vividus closes the album with stirring riffs and harmonics coupled with heady samples.
Bloodred Hourglass continues to draw on its modern influences to make every track on We Should Be Buried Like This a memorable one. After two listens, you can already imagine yourself singing along to the choruses with the musicians!
85/100
