She Must Burn
Umbra Mortis – Grey Rock Music
‘Umbra Mortis’ has made its long-awaited release following ‘Of Blood and Bone’ the first single from the record back in 2019. With founding members Threadwell and Keating teaming up with Kyle Lamb, Jack Higgs, Steve Padley, and Valis Volkova they have created a ferociously mesmerising body of work. For those new to She Must Burn their sound is reminiscent of the likes of Cradle of Filth with operatic ethereal vocals from Volkova and Lambs’ merciless guttural growls. Opening with ‘Nine’ a theatrical display of rain-laced pianos accompanied by Volkovas’ vocals is like the calm before the storm. ‘The Rats in The Walls’ is unapologetically brutal from the get-go. Lambs’ impressive vocal range plus two shredding guitars, rumbling bass, and thrashing drums create the perfect juxtaposition. ‘Eulogy’ starts slow and evolves throughout with mixes of melodic and extreme instrumentals and vocals. Closing with ‘The Serpent’ Lambs’ vocals are barbarous and at times fast-paced plus we get a kick-ass guitar solo to break it up a bit. The effects used on Volkovas’ vocals add an extra element to the song. ‘Umbra Mortis’ is ten tracks bursting at the seams of extravagant symphonic black metal which is sure to tantalise old and new fans alike.
Review by Aggy Gillon