Finnish MARIANAS REST have returned with chilly atmospheric death/doom metal with their new release, “Auer.” The sweetness in the dark, tender mix consists of wonderful melodies, while the bitterness is emphasized by vocalist Jaakko Mäntymaa‘s harsh vocals and the massive walls of guitar riffage. In contrast to their previous album, “Fata Morgana,” where the band was situated at a distant polar station, the icebreaker in “Auer” travels into a vast and perpetual white expanse. This album was released on March 24th, 2023, through Napalm Records.
The title track and album opener, “Auer,” showcases an irresistible melancholic melody as its centerpiece. Vocalist Jaakko Mäntymaa adds to the contrast by delivering gritty rhythms and anguished growls that complement the overarching melody, which recurs in various forms throughout the track. The guitar solo, with its slick melancholy, is particularly memorable and may linger in your mind long after listening. This makes “Auer” a bit exhausting in the long run, but also an intense listening experience.
The track “Diseased” starts the album’s storyline in a narrative style and is one of the darkest songs on the record. The song’s bitter riffs and aggressive vocals create a forceful and dramatic presentation. The gigantic riff towards the middle of the track adds an overwhelming sensation, making it a definitive moment that creates a great sense of urgency.
Tracks like “Light Reveals Our Wounds” and “Fear Travels Fast” evoke an INSOMNIUM-like mood in the lead work and overall atmosphere. However, the distinctively murky touch sets them apart and allows the band to stand out from their fellow Finnish metal acts. “White Cradle” nostalgically recalls SENTENCED‘s “The Cold White Light” era with eerie soundscapes and lush leads, while a long-form clean vocal passage brings back a Gothic metal tinge. The song builds up with emotional intensity, culminating in delightful fervor.
“The Ground Still Burns” feels more like a Gothic rock aesthetic that collides with harsh vocal stylings, while “The Hanging Blade” presents an epic blend of prog and doom with a minimalist ambient section that adds a different flavor of uneasiness. When the riff rattles relentlessly through the ear canals, it’s hard to bear, but it’s also exactly the right soundtrack if you want to stare brokenly at the wall.
Undoubtedly, the album’s highlight is “Sirens,” featuring Aaron Stainthorpe, the legendary vocalist of MY DYING BRIDE. The track begins in a wonderfully timid and melancholic way, almost dreamy in its delivery. A narrative voice introduces the story, which remains monotonous in a fascinating way. Gradually, the voice transitions into a melodic and fragile singing style that, when combined with the monotonous instrumentation, creates a vulnerable sense of melancholy. However, before the listener becomes completely immersed in the emotional weight, singer Jaakko Mäntymaa busts out his brutal vocals and the song takes a dramatic turn. The contrast between the delicate and aggressive styles creates a powerful and unforgettable experience.
MARIANAS REST‘s music is a powerful fusion of melodic death metal, blackened doom, and black metal, all enveloped in atmospheric ambient sound. The band strives to exceed all expectations and provide listeners with an intense and unforgettable musical experience. This new album showcases an increased use of clean vocals, which integrate seamlessly into their unique sonic world. Once again, the band delivers a captivating interplay of weightless melodies and crushing outbursts, creating a fascinating aura that draws the listener in. MARIANAS REST‘s world is a place of beauty and brutality, and they extend an irresistible invitation to join them on their journey. This album is sure to leave a lasting impression and solidify the band’s position as a rising force in the metal scene.
Written by Peter Jerman
Tracklist
1. Auer
2. Diseased
3. Light Reveals Our Wounds
4. White Cradle
5. The Ground Still Burns
6. Fear Travels Fast
7. The Hanging Blade
8. Sirens (feat. Aaron Stainthorpe)
Lineup
Jaakko Mäntymaa – Vocals
Harri Sunila – Guitar
Nico Mänttäri – Guitar
Nico Heininen – Drums
Niko Lindman – Bass/backing vocals
Aapo Koivisto – Keyboards
Label
Napalm Records
