Review by Wiley on April 5, 2009.

From the very start this plays out cold yet thick. Lots of mood explored within just the first few moments best compared with post rock peers Red Sparrowes, the vocals swaying and floating like The Cure only more with serious melancholy threads. For even further point of reference I could swear I even hear some Katatonia-esque swells from the guitars.

These guys have seemingly spent quite a bit of time cultivating this sound, adding in extra reverb here and there,lacing the guitars with phasers swirling slightly above the cold, even doses of warm keyboard floods (more for effect than anything else), and they seem to do a fine amount of experimenting with drum tone and effects to bring out that far off in nowhere feeling. Deep mood execution, after running through this full length twice - I realize this full length is two previous recordings put together. Those being "Forcing Out The Silence" from 2004 and "Blood Is Bright" from 2005. Though it isnt entirely noticeable as they do so much sound experimenting with their mix both recording sessions fit quite well together. The melancholy presented here in excellent quality, beautiful but curious artwork, and situated within shoe
gazer aesthetic -very much a band found at home on their new label: The END Records.

Recommended listening for those into latter Green Carnation, Red Sparrowes,Godspeedyoublackemperor, or just swimming in introspection. Definitely for the open minded, and those in need of a refreshing newcomer in the post rock/post punk subgenre.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 9
Production: 7
Originality 7.8
Overall: 7.

Rating: 7.7 out of 10

Review by Krys on April 4, 2001.

I was waiting for this album since the end of February, and let me tell you, if I got it on time, we would have had our first "album of the month" co-winners then. Their latest release is not only a breakthrough, it’s a masterpiece with killer riffs combined with the most beautiful melodies I have ever heard.

Graveworm shows us how to mix a gothic atmosphere with symphonic black metal without losing dynamics and heaviness. Comparisons with Dimmu Borgir or Cradle of Filth are only partially justified because Graveworm are far more catchy and simpler, without translating into "more commercial."

Hymns like "Unhallowed By The Infernal One" or "Demonic Dreams" are instant classics. I could list almost all of them but you can read the track list for yourself. I promised not to use profane words but… holy shit, what music!!! I don’t think this CD will leave my player this year. All compositions are so diverse that there is no way it can ever get to the point that I’d be bored. Variations of those two mentioned styles plus choirs, orchestra, Scottish warpipes and acoustic guitars make this such an unforgettable experience I don’t think I will be able to close my eyes without dropping on my knees and blessing all demons responsible for this masterpiece.

"Scourge Of Malice" is just plain perfect. With Stefan’s vocals, one of the best in this genre, Steve and Eric’s unbelievable riffs, the unholy Sabine’s keyboards, Diddi and Martin’s demonic rhythm section, which varies from slow gut pounding punches to extremely fast poundings, this CD will leave the mark on your development as an air-breathing being. Did I mention the remarkable Iron Maiden’s cover "Fear Of The Dark"? Well, too late.

Bottom Line: There is no bottom line. Buy it or fucking die. (I know, I promised, I’m listening to it right now and can’t stop it!)

Rating: 10 out of 10