Band: Imperanon
CD Title: Stained
Year: 2004
Website: www.imperanon.com
MySpace: Unknown
Label: Nuclear Blast
Featured on: Loucifer Speaks exclusive
Rating: 7.6 / 10
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Whenever I listen to "Stained" by Imperanon I always think of Children Of Bodom. I try not to, but I can't help it – there's a huge similarity between them.
Throughout my various activities on metal forums, I have noticed that (along with HIM) Children Of Bodom are one of those bands that divide opinions. Personally I am a fan of the music - I just don’t agree with the hero worship that the band (and Norther for that matter) receives. Obviously this is not the band's fault, but unfortunately it does upset the purists.
So, now that I’ve confessed my admiration of bands like Imperanon and Children Of Bodom, I thought I’d try to redeem myself by explaining why. The main reason is that I love most music that has a classical influence and on "Stained" Imperanon have definitely captured that. The major Malmsteen influence (which probably is the reason for or a result of the Neoclassical element) is also a major turn on.
I thought I'd do things slightly differently for this review and tell you about each track in turn.
"Blade" is a perfect opener for Imperanon. It sets the scene immediately and straight away you have some kind of idea of what to expect from the band and the album.
For me, "Memories to Dust" has a slightly darker ambience to it than the previous track and the riff is instantly memorable.
I can see why "Stained" was chosen as the title track. It's punchy, to the point and still retains all of the keyboard and guitar lines which are responsible for making this kind of band so popular.
"Prisoner In Me" is what I'd describe as 'one of those battle songs'. The driving rhythms allow you to imagine horses galloping and the melodies make me think of a warrior raising his/her sword on the way to or from some great battle. Great stuff - definitely one of my favourites on the album.
"Sold" seems a bit lacklustre compared to "Prisoner In Me" and I dislike some of the synths used. Maybe if it didn't follow my favourite track on the album it might have got a better write up!
The title of 'Lou's second favourite track on the album' goes to "Hollow Man". The combination of harsh and clean vocals work wonderfully. I know it's a technique that's been used time and time again, but that doesn't stop it from being damn good!
"Rhythm Of Pain" has, quite unsurprisingly, a great rhythm. It’s a shame that Imperanon aren't touring at the moment (in fact, I'm not even completely sure if they’re still together / active) because this would have been a great one to witness in a live situation. The changes in pace allow for everything from headbanging to lighter raising.
I'm a bit unsure about the inclusion of female vocals in "Shadowsouls". It just seems little bit forced. Other than that, this is another good track.
"Vein (I Bleed)" is another that I’d like to witness live. As soon as I hear the intro, I immediately want to be dancing like a loon in a field at some festival somewhere.
The final track on the album is [imaginatively] called "The End" and is an awesome way to finish the album. I especially like the drum fill at around one minute in – it's simple, yet effective... and it makes a nice pounding sound. I'm easily pleased, me.
Imperanon are, without doubt, very competent musicians. My main problem with them is that they do sound very similar to bands like Children Of Bodom. However, with that said, if they're playing this music because they love it and not to 'cash in' as it were, then I really see no harm in it. Just throw on the CD and enjoy it!
01 Blade
02 Memories To Dust
03 Stained
04 Prisoner In Me
05 Sold
06 Hollow Man
07 Rhythm Of Pain
08 Shadowsouls
09 Vein (I Bleed)
10 The End
