ALBUM REVIEW: Among Ashes And Monoliths – Ablaze My Sorrow

Ablaze My Sorrow have experienced a long and storied career which has also endured the test of time and a few bouts of hiatus in amongst their existence. Their last release was all the way back in 2016 but with the introduction of frontman Jonas Udd they are ready to hit the ground running with fifth studio album Among Ashes And Monoliths which is available now via Black Lion Records. Will this release kickstart a resurgence?

My Sorrow commences with powerful, commanding riffs and provoking orchestral elements. Gritty, abrasive vocals join the fold alongside intriguing melodies to create an inviting fusion of styles. Among Ashes And Monoliths welcomes you with a pulsing drum beat and a ferocious growl before offering up rounds of swift guitar work and sporadic bursts of intense blast beats to keep you on your guard. The vocal work takes the spotlight in this track as it twists between emotional fragility and a distinct viciousness. Black Waters initially takes a different approach, harnessing a soothing, calming nature and melodic vocals that flow elegantly throughout this piece. The established aggression does return towards the latter stages.

Grit is almost the polar opposite of its predecessor as it leans towards the darker side of the spectrum, possessing an ominous bite and a heightened tempo. Tasteful lead work makes its presence felt to enhance the energy on show. Her Cold Embrace exudes a melancholy tone which is actually quite infectious and suits the accompanying caustic vocal lines. As the track progresses vocalist Jonna Enckell is introduced to add an inviting elegance to proceedings. At The Grave Of Giants ups the ante with a surging pace and frenzied instrumentation. The infectious melodies and groove injected hooks provide some of the most memorable moments thus far.

Dark Chasms brings forth some enticing, galloping riff work to get your head nodding along before The Cavernous Deep throws some peculiar almost glitchy experimentation into the mix which sets up further emotive vocal pieces. Catchy lead lines slot seamlessly into the rhythm work. Nonextence launches headfirst into a thrash infused wave of guitar work and rapid fire vocals to give you a quick rush of adrenaline.

March Of The Eldritch Spawn almost feels like a funeral procession with its prominent drums and solemn demeanour that is quickly negated by the emphatic opening riffs of The Day I Die. The melodies within are incredibly moreish and will undoubtedly be stuck in your head long afterwards. Frihet Framför Feghet which translates as Freedom Before Cowardice wastes little time in diving into intense vocal barrages combined with lively guitar work to round this release off with a resounding exclamation point.

Whilst it doesn’t exactly provide anything that hasn’t already been heard before in the densely populated realms of melodic death metal, Among Ashes And Monoliths still proves for an enjoyable listen. The blueprint is pretty consistent throughout but there are sprinkles of variety that help set the tracks apart. It may not blow your mind or become an essential piece of your collection but if you’re looking for something to scratch that itch then this is well worth a listen.

Rating: 7/10

Among Ashes And Monoliths is available now via Black Lion Records.

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