Necare are on a mission to "keep it true". The band's debut album 'Ruin' does not sound contemporary and their doom metal is built of approved elements. The result can easily be a bilateral opinion.

Necare mix classic early 1990s English doom metal with their homeland's style. Influences from three big English bands (Anathema, My Dying Bride and Paradise Lost) are clear and easily spotted, as is Morgion's. The music is slow for a big part, so this needs attention from a listener. Heavy, bleak parts suddenly cut and calm, beautiful music soothes ears, only to be devastated again under a crushing weight this album is made of. Whether it is heavy riffing or acoustic serenity, suitable synths accompany and build atmospheres further (a lot of synth mat here). Usually there is enough changes (for me, who do not like too droning stuff at all) in songs, but not always. Sometimes it doesn't go anywhere and 'Gethsemane' is the worst example of this. Instrumental pieces are also boring and familiar. As this requires attention, I get lost without lyrics (a promotional copy reviewed) and the songs feel, if not badly, but neglectfully composed.

Preset sounds are utilized on the synths, which usually doesn't help when building atmosphere. However, I really have no bad word about the synths. Heavy guitar always steal the show anyways. On heaviest it sounds like it sucks the sound back and if you understand what I mean you know it is heavy. Vocals steal the show, too. Hoarse, throaty growl penetrates through everything and some speech and Anathema-esque "weeping voice" are also well done. Add to this organic sounding bass and drums (maybe too tight snare sound for doom) and you get a very 1990s sound with today's power. Even though the band is two-piece, they still play real drums. Thumbs up for that. It is all well enough performed, but totally without anything flashy.

The most important thing about "keeping it real" is still the fact, that straight copying can't be any good. In Necare's case, the band have just and just evaded the pits of plagiarism. And I got a bilateral opinion: this sounds very familiar, but actually kind of fresh these days. You know how you want your doom, so I can tell you this album manages to "keep it true" (unlike many a legendary band who have strayed way too far from their roots), but doesn't manage to present anything new.

Rating: 6½ (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
05/17/2004 19:29