FLESHGOD APOCALYPSE - Labyrinth

Fleshgod Apocalypse's third studio effort, Labyrinth, is based upon the myth of the Labyrinth of Knossos (Greek Mythology) and its analogies in modern times. Subject matter aside, this is an incredible album, one which forces us to look at the metaphors it presents – the maze itself, for example, seen as a representation of mankind’s endless search to define itself. Not, sadly, anything to do with David Bowie’s Labyrinth.
We’re presented with the best death metal the Italian group has to offer, but much more besides, as this album truly breaks down the boundaries of Modern Music and introduces elements of classical orchestration and moving piano recital into sweeping majestic guitar work and thunderous rudimentary beating of drum/bass. The songs are linked together, fused into a musical barrage, there’s not much time to catch your breath between the melody of ‘Elegy’  and the guitar driven “war cry” of ‘Under the Black Sails’
If I have one criticism of this album, it’s the monotony, in the sense that guitar and orchestra is kept on equal footing – neither is allowed to outgrow or expand relative to the other –  when such chances would be welcomed as rich explosions of creativity. That being said, this album is far from disappointing, its exhausting melodies and haunting intro’s almost inspire you to rise against and invade a neighboring country!
Symphonic people becoming metal and metal people becoming symphonic is not an easy process, Fleshgod have managed it in this release and credit must be given where due.

Wayne Madden