Lunaris
Cyclic

April 2004
Released: 2004, Elitist Records
Rating: 3.0/5
Reviewer: Lord of the Wasteland

CYCLIC is a complex album to say the least. This is not a quick album to sink in; it takes a few listens to absorb all that is going on here. Lunaris combines black, death and prog into a sometimes strange but nonetheless inventive mix. The Norwegian band is comprised of ex-members of Borknagar, Spiral Architect and 1349, so the talent is certainly there. It just takes some patience and an open mind to wade through the complexity.



Much of CYCLIC is filled with piercing black metal vocals, however “I.A.D.” and “In Nothing” depart from the shrieking in favor of powerful metal crooning a la Warrel Dane of Nevermore. “Casualties of Peace” opens with a stunning vocal and an acoustic guitar that reminds me of Queensryche before launching into full-fledged black metal mode. The use of keyboards is heavy here and leans toward the sound of Dimmu Borgir in spots, while the riffs are akin to Death and even Emperor at times. “Slaves Of Opinion” even sports what sounds like a surf guitar! Steve DiGiorgio (Testament, Death, Control Denied) and Eric Peterson (Testament) make guest appearances on the CD, which only adds to the already impressive musicianship.



CYCLIC is busy from start to finish with SO MANY things going on at once, it can be difficult to really get into their music. I doubt Lunaris will win over many people with their bizarre blend of metal but whatever you want to call them, one label will not be “boring.”



KILLER KUTS: “I.A.D.,” “Slaves of Opinion,” “Casualties Of Peace,” “In Nothing”