#10 - Top of 2017

Mausoleum Gate - Into a Dark Divinity (Cruz del Sur Music)

In number 10 for 2017, another Finnish band, Mausoleum Gate with a very unique heavy metal release "Into a Dark Divinity". This is just the second album by the band formed in 2009 but it showcases a unique approach both in musical and lyrical themes. This is achieved by the a great combination of mellow vocals by the lead singer V-P Varpula and 70's inspired guitar riffs by Count LaFey and Kasperi Puranen along with typical heavy metal rhythm section (Wicked Ischanius and Oscar Razanez). "Condemned to Darkness" definitely sets the tone and high expectations that are met throughout the album which has no low moment, although it is on the short side clocking at only 42 minutes. The short but effective "Burn the Witches at Dawn" is an interesting change of pace and serves as a nice transition to the heavier and more epic "Apophis"and "Solomon’s Key"! The groovy "Horns" and the grandiose "Into a Dark Divinity" wrap up a unique heavy metal record which sets the tone for future work by the band.

95/100

Below is the lyric video for the song "Solomon's key".

If you like what you hear, you can order the album from here and help support and upcoming melodic heavy metal band.