Reviewed by Ian Webber

In the 1990s and early 2000s, Extol were heralded as death metal genre leaders until a prolonged hiatus in 2005. This, the comeback release from these Norwegian metallers, came out in 2013 and does not disappoint. Opening with a complex, progressive riff that gives way to abrasive rat-a-tat drumming, "Betrayal" is a melting pot of various styles, the layered harmonies of the chorus revealing a range of influences that include King's X and Believer. "Wasteland" is another track that references an earlier sound with a seamless blend of clean guitars, industrial sounds and mixture of melodic and abrasive vocals. In "Faltering Moves," the musical theme continues with an effortless coalescence of progressive death metal with lumbering dark undertones. Lyrically, however, these shades of moroseness and despair are matched by positive, hope-filled statements. "Your light represents something anew/Affirming my value." The entire project is recorded with crystal clear production allowing harmonies to sing out over a muddier backdrop of guitars. "Behold The Sun" is yet another track that combines the beauty of melodic sections and gospel lyrics with an altogether heavy, darker sound. For three musicians, the sound is broad and full, displaying an impressive level of technical ability. This is certainly an album worth seeking out as an example of authentic metal and authentic faith.

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