Archemenia are a bunch of Finnish newcomers and 'Human Stain' is their first demo, released in September 2004. Can't remember how I found the band's website, where from the demo is fully downloadable, with its covers. I don't usually review mp3s, but I won't make another comment on sound, but it's clean, but lacks of power. Playing is okay, but not tight. I believe the guys lacked of studio experience.

As they put it themselves, they are a melodic death/black metal influenced metal band. That doesn't say a lot, but if I throw the names Alghazanth, Old Man's Child and Cradle Of Filth (especially 'Disgracefully Vanished' reminds me of old COF!), how's then? Opening with atmosphere-setting synth intro, 'Phenomenal Metamorphosis' explodes to synth driven dark melodiousness, accompanied by metal riffing, double kick drums and a vocalist with a very hoarse throat. Archemenia's songwriting stays in scanty spectrum. Synths sound quite big, something like Bal-Sagoth's. Guitars are extremely generic with no uniqueness whatsoever, but admittedly leads are okay. Drummer plays at least a little varying beats, so songs do not feel overtly long. Different vocal styles are that hoarse throat, some growled ones and spoken words (usually with some effect). The title track sounds most original of the bunch and if it was to be heard in aforementioned bands' discography, it would still be a good song.

You should try 'Human Stain' if Alghazanth and/or Old Man's Child belongs to your favourite bands. In my ears Archemenia is still too generic-sounding band. Let's see what the future will bring.

Reviewed by Lane
02/16/2005 20:32