Vesperian Sorrow – “Stormwinds of Ages”

I’ve been waiting (rather patiently, I might add) for this album ever since Vesperian Sorrow released “Regenesis Creation” back in 2006. I’ve found that the trouble with long awaited albums is that they rarely live up to the anticipation. They either don’t change the world like the listener expects them to, or the listener finds that the band have completely changed their sound while they’ve been away (I’m looking at you, Morbid Angel). Thankfully, I’m pleased to say that neither of these scenarios are the case with “Stormwinds of Ages”.

From the very beginning of the intro track (“Sanguis Vitam Est”) you know that you’re back in Vesperian Sorrow territory. For those of you who haven’t listened to this band yet (and why the hell not?), they play what they call “Symphonic Dark Metal”. It would be easy to compare them to bands like Dimmu Borgir, but (for me at least) VS is the better band. Throughout this album, you’re surrounded by fairly complex song structures that keep you on your toes. The drums act as a superb driving force behind each track and are performed spectacularly. Donn Donni’s instantly recognisable vocals tear through the mix, and the guitars and keyboards often have an orchestral feel to them. As with previous Vesperian Sorrow albums, there’s a lot going on here! The songs on this album are not ‘just tracks’, they’re compositions – exquisite pieces of music.

The album also features guest appearances from Jason McMaster (Dangerous Toys/Watchtower/Broken Teeth), Erika Tandy (Autumn Tears/Ignitor), Carl August Tidemann (Winds/Arcturus) and Jon Zig (Sarcolytic/Images of Violence). I have to admit that aside from recognising a couple of band names, I’m not really familiar with these guests… but, the music is astounding and that’s the main thing!

The album itself feels like a more complete work than previous albums. Every track is placed in its optimum place to enable the band to take you through their elaborate and monumental soundscapes. The production is clean and crisp and allows you to be able to absorb every detail of everything that’s taking place.

If it sounds like this review is completely built up from hero worship, then that’s because it is. The only fault I have with Vesperian Sorrow is that they take such long breaks between albums… and, even then, when the music’s as good as this, who cares? They more than make up for a bit of waiting around.

Is there anything I would change about the album? Not at all… hence the superbly high score.

Unfortunately, at this time I do not know when the album will be available to buy. As far as I know, the Vesperian Sorrow are currently looking for a label to release it. If you happen to own or work for a label, please get in touch with them.

Rating: 100%

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