Back in 2022, Norwegian Gothic Industrial band Gothminister released their album Pandemonium to universal acclaim from fans and critics alike. Hitting all the right notes, the album by and large was considered one of the best offerings of modern Industrial Metal out there and miles ahead of many others within the realm. Also, up to snuff with the band’s prior works – including favorites such as 2005’s Empire of Dark Salvation, leading up to 2017’s The Other Side – two years after Pandemonium Gothminister are back with more deliciously appealing darkness.
Calling this new chapter Pandemonium II: Battle of the Underworlds, in many ways, it is a direct continuation of where the band left off with Pandemonium. Still orchestrated by Lead Vocalist/Songwriter Bjørn Alexander Brem, a lineup of Guitarists Icarus (Glenn Nilsen) and Turbo Natas (Ketil Eggum) add that extra power needed to make each track what it is. Released on May 3rd through AFM Records, the 12 new songs as a whole are fast, thriving, and leave little room for boredom.
Blasting off with “Battles of the Underworlds,” from here you push through with consistent speedy, addictive rhythms. This in mind, each song tells a dark tale which is beautifully accented by keys, harmonizers and an overtly creepy soundscape of howls and beyond. However, the x-factor that give the songs their backbone are indeed the distorted guitars, plus Brem’s distinctive dark and dominant vocals.
Some songs are also more theatrical than others. For example, “Monstereo Creature” builds up its storyline slowly and carefully, creating suspense and tension. On the other hand, tracks like “Tonight” feels perfect for tearing up the dance floor. Just some samples of what this is all about, all of the tracks within themselves seem to have a perfect balance. In fact, even the brief instrumental “The Procession,” dressed with a mood straight out of a Horror movie, gives something to the overall effect of this album.
In the end, somehow even while these songs are filled with doom and gloom, they also spread good vibes thanks to the melodies. Odd? Yes, but it is truly the paradox many have come to love about Gothminister over these last 20 plus years the band has existed. With that, Pandemonium II: Battle of the Underworlds is yet another album filled with songs that will definitely stick with you long after one listen. Something that will ultimately please Industrial Metal and Goth fans alike, Cryptic Rock gives it 5 out of 5 stars.
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