Alright, before I get torn alive by fans, allow me to explain myself. While Heaven Wept used to play doom, and not of that depressive/crushing variety. No, their albums had a grandiose, epic feeling which few could rival. While I personally couldn't enjoy it too much, I've always admired the almost spotless songwriting that managed to make those albums sound truly majestic without being forced or cheesy. Sadly, that is not the case with Fear of Infinity.
The first four tracks might hit you as quite a surprise, considering the fact that Fear of Infinity is for some reason labeled "doom", when in fact the first 14 minutes are ye olde slightly slowed power metal, in all of its cheesiness and bombastic glory. Of course, one might think this should be no surprise: after all, progressive and power were some of the key elements in this band's sound in the past. However, nothing prepared me for the shower of liquid cheese those tracks poured down on me. Grandiose symphonics, theatrical vocals and thundering riffs are all flawlessly executed, and I suppose they're a small piece of heaven for those who dig this kind of sound. But to me, While Heaven Wept lost that special skill with which they made epic, yet not over-forced and melodramatic music.
After the initial disappointment, "To Grieve Forever" and "Saturn And Silence" continue going down a similar path: these two are basically a slowed version of the previous tracks, which is to say, they're pretty much annoying power ballads which have always been a huge pain for me to listen to. "Finality" is the only one I properly enjoyed: its 11 minute length allowed the track to properly start, develop and climax, as opposed to the other ones which sound awfully rushed most of the time. Regarding this little fact, I imagine most tracks have far more potential than they show. Alas, before giving everything they can, their insufficient duration makes them fizzle out and leave a gap where a proper climax should have been.
I suppose I could write about how the songwriting itself is more simplified than their previous records, or about how majestic those vocals sound when paired with the uplifting instrumental melodies and harmonies - but there is no need. All that needs to be said is that Fear of Infinity is an album piss-packed with energy and bright colors (albeit rushed): without a doubt a treat for fans of similar music, yet the omnipresent feeling of "Y U SO DAMN FLUFFY, BRAH?!?" will keep me and others who share my opinion away.
Nice description. I enjoyed this album, though I can see why others wouldn't like it if Power metal isn't their thing. Good review, although 'fluffy' might be a bit of an exaggeration.
haha. Solid 8 for me I think.