🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: 1. In a Dream
Track 2: 2. Clouds
Track 3: 3. Smell of Incense
Track 4: 4. A Caress of Stars
Track 5: 5. The Sleeping Beauty
Track 6: 6. Forever Burning Flames
Track 7: 7. The Scapegoat
Track 8: 8. Undressed
🎸 Album Review:
Tiamat’s ‘Clouds Re-Release’ is a seminal album that has stood the test of time since its initial release in 1992. Known for their unique blend of gothic rock, doom metal, and atmospheric soundscapes, Tiamat has created a haunting and ethereal masterpiece that continues to captivate listeners with its dark allure.
The album opens with “In a Dream,” a mesmerizing track that sets the tone for the atmospheric journey that is about to unfold. Johan Edlund’s haunting vocals float over a lush backdrop of swirling guitars and moody synths, creating a sense of dreamlike melancholy that permeates the entire album. The title track, “Clouds,” follows suit with its brooding atmosphere and haunting melodies, evoking a sense of introspection and longing.
One of the standout tracks on the album is “Smell of Incense,” a mesmerizing blend of gothic rock and doom metal that showcases Tiamat’s ability to create a sense of foreboding beauty. The track builds slowly, with layers of guitars and keyboards weaving together to create a dense sonic tapestry that envelops the listener in a sense of otherworldly mystery.
“A Caress of Stars” is another highlight, with its hypnotic rhythm and haunting melody that lingers long after the song has ended. The track showcases Tiamat’s knack for crafting atmospheric music that is both dark and alluring, drawing the listener into a world of shadows and secrets.
The album takes a more introspective turn with “The Sleeping Beauty,” a somber ballad that showcases Edlund’s emotive vocals against a backdrop of delicate piano and strings. The track is a poignant reflection on loss and longing, with lyrics that paint a vivid picture of heartache and yearning.
“Forever Burning Flames” sees Tiamat embracing their doom metal roots with its crushing riffs and thunderous drums, creating a sense of raw power and intensity that is both exhilarating and cathartic. The track is a sonic tour de force that showcases the band’s versatility and ability to seamlessly blend different musical styles.
“The Scapegoat” is a haunting and atmospheric track that delves into themes of betrayal and redemption, with its evocative lyrics and ethereal melodies creating a sense of unease and tension. The track builds to a dramatic climax, with swirling guitars and pulsating rhythms creating a sense of impending doom.
The album closes with “Undressed,” a brooding and atmospheric track that brings the listener full circle, with its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics serving as a fitting conclusion to this dark and enigmatic journey.
In comparison to Tiamat’s previous albums, ‘Clouds Re-Release’ stands out as a bold and ambitious work that showcases the band’s evolution and growth as musicians. While Tiamat’s earlier albums leaned more towards traditional doom metal, ‘Clouds’ marked a shift towards a more atmospheric and gothic sound that would come to define their later work.
Overall, ‘Clouds Re-Release’ is a haunting and evocative album that continues to captivate listeners with its dark beauty and introspective themes. Tiamat’s ability to create a sense of atmosphere and mood is on full display here, with each track drawing the listener deeper into a world of shadows and secrets. With its haunting melodies, emotive vocals, and atmospheric soundscapes, ‘Clouds Re-Release’ is a true masterpiece that stands the test of time and solidifies Tiamat’s place as one of the pioneers of gothic metal.