Downhearted

I got this album about ten days ago and I must have listened to it more than 10 times so far which is quite impressive since I have to listen to tons of other things. I just can't help but press the play button again and again. It's quite incredible that in this particular genre of gothic metal, overwhelmed by large quantities of bands, especially from Finland, there's a band that is able to release such a great album. This stuff is definitely straight forward gothic metal in the best Finnish tradition

Very close in comparison to their fellow compatriots Him, Entwine or To Die For, this band successfully manages to combine all the elements needed to achieve the best possible result in gothic metal. All the gothic elements, from the great melancholic melodies, gloomy atmospheres, outstanding vocal lines, catchy choruses, great female backing vocals, confident song writing and powerful arrangements are gathered not on one or two songs, but on all of them. It is going to hold your attention for a long time, believe me.

You will find absolutely no weak point on this record, their third one after Sorrowburn in 1998 and Tearstained in 2000. Charon are then not just another gothic metal band from Finland. Well, they are, but what they did here with this new record is beyond any comparison. The band has found the perfect balance between aggressive and melodic songs to release their most complete and convincing work to date and I can't wait to hear their future material. Album of the year ? Very likely.