Soulgrind's latest album, Ad Pulchram Mortem, is a testament to the band's evolution and resilience. Since its inception in 1992, Soulgrind has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding its raw, solo death/doom roots for a more melodic and gothic sound. The introduction of vocalist Tanya Lilith in 1997 marked a pivotal moment, steering the band towards a gothic black/thrash fusion that has defined their sound ever since. Despite the passing of long-time drummer and occasional vocalist Agathon "The Beast" in 2022, Soulgrind continues to forge ahead, releasing their tenth album sixteen years after their last. This hiatus, however, has not dampened their passion or artistic vision.
The album showcases a blend of the band's past and present, with gothic influences reminiscent of Finnish contemporaries Hanging Garden and Sojourner. Tracks like "Jylhä Metsämies" and "A Whispered Curse Upon the Gale" showcase a thrashy edge, while "The Origin of the White Serpent" delivers a Paradise Lost-inspired death/doom. The introduction of keyboardist Azhemin in 2001 has added a layer of darkness and ugliness to the band's sound, with his deep, grizzled blackened growls providing a harsh contrast to the melodic choruses led by Lilith. This dynamic duo, Lilith and Azhemin, creates a captivating musical tension, with Lilith's emotionally charged cleans serving as a soothing balm to Azhemin's beastly growls.
However, the album is not without its inconsistencies. The mid-album track "In the Circus of Tuonela" feels out of place, lacking memorable hooks. The album's length, at 65 minutes, including an eleven-minute finale, also raises concerns about cohesion. While the compositions and performances are generally strong, the need for tighter editing is evident. The album works best when Lilith is singing, rescuing songs that might otherwise be just okay, such as "Tears of the Earth" and "As a Narrow Fjord Descends." Yet, even with her soaring performances, Lilith occasionally struggles with pitch and vocal tones, which can be distracting.
Despite these minor shortcomings, Ad Pulchram Mortem is a testament to Soulgrind's artistic growth and resilience. The band's ability to blend old and new, raw and melodic, showcases their musical maturity and passion. The album's release, sixteen years after their last, is a testament to their dedication and artistic vision. As a fan of melodic music, I find myself swooning over the album's choruses and the heavy crunch of guitars and growls that beautifully contrast with the gentler side of the music. While the album could benefit from a few more edits, the compositions and performances are just too good to ignore.
In conclusion, Ad Pulchram Mortem is a must-listen for fans of gothic and melodic metal. Soulgrind has proven that they can still create music of the highest caliber, even after a long hiatus. With their unique blend of old and new, raw and melodic, Soulgrind continues to push the boundaries of their genre, leaving a lasting impression on listeners. I eagerly await their next release, hoping for a more cohesive and polished work of art.
