REVIEW: DISTORTED REFLECTION - Doom Rules Eternally

 

DISTORTED REFLECTION - Doom Rules Eternally

Iron Shield Records

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After contributing to the creation of four powerful and distinctive power-doom albums with SORROWS PATH, a renowned Greek metal band, co-founder and guitarist Kostas Salomidis embarked on a new chapter in his musical journey. In a surprising turn of events, Kostas decided to part ways with Sorrows Path just as they were gearing up for their fifth album. Undeterred by the departure, Kostas took the opportunity to actualize his own unique doom vision. In August 2022, he unveiled his brainchild, DISTORTED REFLECTION, a band that not only mirrors his artistic evolution but also amplifies the heaviness of his musical expression. Interestingly, the roots of DISTORTED REFLECTION trace back to 1993 when Kostas proposed two band names to Takis Drakopoulos, the founder of SORROWS PATH – "Sorrow’s Path" and "Distorted Reflection." While Takis opted for the former, the latter has become Kostas’ musical odyssey. Stepping into uncharted territory, Kostas will assume vocal duties for the first time, adding a new dimension to his artistic repertoire. In his recent undertaking, Kostas is supported by Stelios Pavlou on drums and Vangelis Yalamas on bass, synth, and backing vocals.

DISTORTED REFLECTION, as a band, is characterized by a compelling sonic landscape rooted in the essence of doom metal. Their music weaves together potent heavy riffs with intricate melodies, creating a dynamic fusion that resonates with the essence of classic heavy metal. A standout facet of their sound is the incorporation of brutal vocals, prominently featured in tracks like "Dark Mermaid," injecting a raw intensity into their compositions. What sets DISTORTED REFLECTION apart is their adept use of keyboards, seamlessly integrated into the band's overall sound. This unique touch not only complements but enhances the musical tapestry, offering something original, and even rare within the broader spectrum of their genre. In essence, DISTORTED REFLECTION manifests a distinctive sonic identity that transcends conventional boundaries, making them a noteworthy presence in the realm of doom metal.

Within the shadowed verses of its lyrics, embracing a realm of darkness and introversion, the entire atmosphere of the album from DISTORTED REFLECTION exhales a paradoxical essence—simultaneously epic and lyrical. The musical tapestry woven by this enigmatic band transcends the conventional boundaries of despair, infusing a profound sense of grandeur into tales of the damned soul. It challenges preconceptions, questioning who dictates that such narratives cannot be epic in their scope. DISTORTED REFLECTION beckons listeners into a realm where the introspective and the epic converge, creating a captivating sonic landscape that lingers, inviting contemplation of the boundless nuances within the human experience.

Adding an intriguing layer to this release, DISTORTED REFLECTION presents captivating guest appearances that elevate the musical journey. Giannis Drolapas graces the album with a mesmerizing guitar solo on "The Eternal Gate," infusing it with a distinctive flair. The track "Cassandra" takes on a new dimension with a compelling guitar solo by Ross Friedman, offering a unique sonic experience. Nicholas Leptos lends his powerful vocals to "Mr. Snake," contributing an additional layer of intensity and diversity. These guest appearances not only showcase the collaborative spirit but also enrich the overall tapestry of the album, making it a truly captivating and multifaceted musical endeavor.

An inherently captivating and imaginative release, this album explores a fascinating spectrum within its musical genre, maintaining the listener's interest from start to finish. The infusion of variety deftly pushes the boundaries, creating an experience that transcends conventional norms. Notably, even those inclined towards the epic and heavy metal sound will find this release irresistibly attractive. It stands as a testament to the band's ability to weave a compelling narrative within the intricate tapestry of their music, making it a noteworthy and appealing addition to the genre.

Νικόλαος Παραστατίδης