Katatonia
Sky Void of Stars
Napalm Records
It’s been a delight to watch Stockholm’s Katatonia organically evolve from their early incarnation as doom/death pioneers, to their current manifestation as progressive metal titans. However, in whatever guise they appear there’s a strong melancholic streak running through their discography and latest album, Sky Void of Stars, is no exception. This is an album that could only come from a band at the crest of creativity and the confidence which that bestows allows Katatonia to expand their sound, and although it’s true they aren’t reinventing the wheel, this record further evidences their perpetual motion. Attesting to a sense of urgency, opening cut ‘Austerity’ gets straight down to business and the band rarely look back over the course of 45 shapeshifting minutes. With lyrical themes and musical motifs echoing throughout, this release has the feel of a concept album and while it’s perfectly feasible to dip in and out, this record is best consumed in one sitting to appreciate its constant ebb and flow. It seems these long winter evenings are the perfect time to experience a new Katatonia album, but rather than being a dark affair, Sky Void of Stars is an aurora illuminating a Nordic night.
Review by Peter Dennis