TRAIL OF TEARS

Norwegian symphonic metallers Trail of Tears return with sixth studio album, 'Bloodstained Endurance', on Napalm Records. It is perhaps a surprise to some that the band are still in existence following a mass walk-out of four members (including former Green Carnation frontman Kjetil Nordhus) towards the end of 2006, just prior to the release of fifth album 'Existentia'. An 'official' statement was issued subsequent to the walk-out informing fans the band had split up, although a further 'official' counter-statement from constant member, and resident growler, Ronny Thorsen refuted the split. With Thorsen recruiting four new members plus soprano vocalist Cathrine Paulsen returning to record her first album with the band since 2002's 'A New Dimension of Might', it appears Thorsen's statement has proved to be the true one. And 'Bloodstained Endurance' sees Trail of Tears revisit their erstwhile musical aesthetic with the growled male vocals courtesy of Thorsen once again alongside Paulsen's distinct and powerful voice. In fact, Paulsen has matured significantly as a singer since her previous stint in the band, so her return is a very welcome one. Fusing disparate metal elements - symphonic; black; thrash; and occasional rock opera leanings - 'Bloodstained Endurance' is a generically diverse album (as one would expect from a record bearing the Trail of Tears name) that is overloaded with originally catchy melodies and skilful songwriting. Although idiomatic of the established Trail of Tears sound, 'Bloodstained Endurance' also sees the Norwegians progress with their music, although one would perhaps expect this with largely a new lineup. In short, there is enough here to please established fans of the band and, hopefully, attract significant interest from those who will be discovering the Norwegians afresh.

LABEL:

FORMAT:

Napalm Records

Album

BLOODSTAINED ENDURANCE

Review by Mark Holmes

RUNNING TIME:

43:20

RELEASE DATE:

1st June 2009

TRACK LISTING

1) The Feverish Alliance
2) Once Kissed by the Serpent (Twice Bitten by Truth)
3) Bloodstained Endurance
4) Triumphant Gleam
5) In the Valley of Ashes
6) A Storm at Will
7) Take Aim. Reclaim. Prevail
8) The Desperation Corridors
9) Farewell to Sanity
10) Dead End Gaze
11) Faith Comes Knocking

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:

Norway

"...'Bloodstained Endurance' sees Trail of Tears revisit their erstwhile musical aesthetic..."