Reviewed by Peter John Willoughby

Perhaps it's those long winters nights that cause the Scandinavians to prefer brutal soundscapes. In Grief are from the frigid north of Norway and they bring a fresh sound to the extreme metal movement. The band uses elements of death metal and black metal with an atmospheric sound throughout. They use haunting synths, lots of dynamic contrast, and catchy dark melodies amidst the crushing guitar attack, pounding drums, and brutal vocals. You could call it progressive death metal as 'Deserted Soul' clocks in at nearly 50 minutes. It will appeal to fans of Opeth, Soilwork, Amon Amarth, and Scar Symmetry. The band is made up of David Sandvik (vocals), Benny André Roste (guitar & bass), Jonas Andreassen (guitar), Daniel Sandvik (synth) and Vegard Hellan (drums). Since this release, they have added an additional member in Tobias Odmundson (bass), and replaced Vegard Hellan with Bruna Barra on drums. Starting with an epic instrumental intro and the sounds of a crackling fire, before "I Am" takes us into the heart of evil with "I am the knight of hate/I am the burden of God/I am the face of Cain/I am the grey in the rain". They tackle the subject of terrorism and religious fanatics in "Invited War", whilst political correctness and the way that news is portrayed by the media are covered in "Modern Truth". There are clear vocals on "My deserted soul is a nest for darkened ghosts/ I feel like ending my life before I do my deed". They finish the album with two of their longest tracks,' "In The End" and "Weak" which allows them to use light and shade by interplaying melodic parts with death metal.

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