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PALE KING
We Are But Memories

Iron, Blood And Death Corporation (2022)
Rating: 7/10

To be honest, this sort of Amon Amarth-styled melodic death metal isn’t usually my thing, but this is a solid sophomore full-length outing from the four-piece Swedish / British band that flows rich with variation and never becomes predictable fare.

The guttural growls of frontman Jonny Pettersson are standard yet decipherable contemporary heaves, but it’s the guitar sound which really brings this opus to life. Pettersson and compatriot Håkan Stuvemark bring an almost melancholic air of the melodious as the combo traipses through the epic strains of the opening title track and the rainy trickle of ‘The Weight Of Reality’.

The music always feels expansive, if tinged with Gothic urgency and despondency, but I do enjoy the shifts from rainy, slower flowing to more upbeat gallops. Tracks such as ‘The Last Farewell’ and ‘A Spectral Display’ showcase the experimental side to the band although a majority of tracks do unravel like vast tapestries of sound. However, the only real aggression, or forcefulness if you will, comes via the vocals because for a majority of the record you feel as if you’re wrapped up in a theatrical, Nordic drama whereby the sprawling guitars act as thematic accompaniment to visions of sweeping shores and vast, icy horizons.

There is still weight to be evidenced, and again I refer to ‘A Spectral Display’ which has streaks of chugging, while elements of ‘Cold Shadow’ even veer towards a blackened style of metal propelled by the drum patterns of Jon Rudin whose timely slaps nod in recognition of Hannah Gill’s bass.

This isn’t melodic death metal that is essential to my ears but I do appreciate its qualities and find its layers refreshing if somewhat lightweight.

Neil Arnold

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