MOURNING
LENORE - Loosely Bounded Infinities
Major Label Industries Records
Portugal has produced more than its fair share of
quality melodic doom/death metal acts over the years, and newcomers MOURNING
LENORE have clearly drawn inspiration from that tradition. Formed only a couple
of years ago and previously known only for a split CD, the band now steps
forward with its debut full-length, Loosely Bounded Infinities, hoping to
establish its place within the genre.
I always approach debut albums with slightly different
expectations. It's only natural for young bands to still be searching for their
identity while gradually breaking free from the shadow of their influences. MOURNING
LENORE are very much at that stage. Their brand of melodic doom/death metal is
competently written, emotionally charged, and successfully captures the
feelings of melancholy, solitude, and introspection that define the style. The
musicians clearly know what they're doing, the songwriting is well structured,
and the production gives the material the weight and atmosphere it deserves.
The problem is that, despite all of its strengths,
Loosely Bounded Infinities rarely rises above the familiar. The band's
influences are evident throughout the album, and while everything is executed
with confidence and sincerity, there isn't enough of a distinctive personality
to make the songs truly stand apart from the countless other releases in this
genre. This is by no means a weak album—far from it—but it doesn't yet reveal a
band with a unique musical identity.
The potential is certainly there. MOURNING LENORE
possess the musicianship and songwriting ability needed to make a lasting
impression, but they still need to develop a more personal approach that will
allow them to escape the confines of their influences. Once they achieve that,
they could become a force worth paying close attention to.
As it stands, Loosely Bounded Infinities is a solid
and enjoyable debut that will primarily appeal to devoted fans of melodic
doom/death metal. Those already invested in the genre should find plenty to
appreciate, while everyone else would be wise to sample a few tracks before
deciding whether this is an album for them.
Christine
Parastatidou
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