Finnish trio NOSDRAMA first requested if we would be interested in reviewing the bands new self-financed material entitled Cold Trails, Long Roots. Of course! We always are! Especially, since the first listening impression I got from the downloads promised something great!
The band seems to see itself ranging in certain metal traditions. For my taste it sounds more like a very independent mixture of heavier Tea Party (without oriental influences), newer Anathema (who actually are no metal anymore) and a bit of the Deftones. Already opener Xen Omm shines with an interesting and intelligent song structure, very rocking, catchy riffing and a proper portion of melancholy. Clean and expressive singing even points up the optimally built atmosphere, while the production paints the town red. Just the mastering could have been a little better. Nevertheless, it’s hard to believe that such album needs to be released autonomously…
Other highlights are the mesmerizing title track Cold Trails, Long Roots, the heaviest song Nemo Ante Mortem, which even comes with some double-bass attacks and the grandiose ballad Things That Made The Pain, although singer Ari could have worked out his voice a bit more at this point. But authenticity and feeling are definitely alright! What more you want?
There is no downer to find on Cold Trails, Long Roots, so I’d like to warmly recommend this great record to everyone else out there loving dark music. It’s actually music made for the darker seasons like stormy autumn nights, but hey, the next winter is coming for sure. Check out NOSDRAMA! 9 points!