Ablaze My Sorrow from Sweden were one of the first melodic Swedish death metal bands that I have listened to in the nineties with their opus ‘If Emotions Still Burn’. I was very happy to see that they are still active and releasing opuses, last two full lengths being in 2016 and 2021. This is brand new e.p. out with Black Lion Records. This one contains 4 songs and band now continues where it left off last couple of years. ‘Transfiguration(The Way Of The Strong)’ starts with fantastic clean vocals and atmospheric parts only to turn into full blooded melodic death metal like we are used to from these legends. ‘Boundless’ starts with synth intro and turns into my favorite song on this e.p. having such genial and memorable guitar main melody theme, not being too fast song, but hits you in the eye with its power nonetheless. I love how this band manages to mix almost sad and lonely dark vibe with all known aggression of death metal making me remember why I love Swedish death metal more than American school of death metal. Lyrics deal with inner battles, depression, suicide and misery, being something I can relate to last couple of years definitely. I must also mention ‘Rotten To The Core’, fastest and harshest song on this record, reminding me a lot of At The Gates in many parts, not being a clone, but as an influence. ‘Enclosed In The Crystals Of Ice’ ends this one like it should, icy, dark and melodic. Nice one, indeed!

8,5/10

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