Soulgrind's long-awaited return with 'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is a fascinating journey through their musical evolution, offering a unique blend of gothic, black, and thrash influences. The album showcases the band's ability to evolve while retaining their raw, passionate edge.
What makes this release particularly intriguing is the sixteen-year gap since their last full-length album. Personally, I believe this hiatus has allowed Soulgrind to refine their sound, incorporating elements of their early gothic black/thrash days with the more recent melodic touches. It's a bold move to blend the old and new, and the result is an intriguing, if somewhat inconsistent, record.
The Musical Landscape
The album explores a wide range of styles, from thrash-infused tracks like 'Jylhä Metsämies' to the Paradise Lost-inspired death/doom masterpiece, 'The Origin of the White Serpent.' This diversity is a strength, but it also leads to some inconsistencies. For instance, 'In the Circus of Tuonela' feels out of place, lacking the memorable hooks that define the rest of the album.
The Power of Duets
One of the standout features of 'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is the dynamic between vocalists Tanya Lilith and Azhemin. Their contrasting styles create a beautiful tension, with Lilith's melodic cleans providing a soothing counterpoint to Azhemin's deep, grizzled growls. This duo is a true highlight, especially on tracks like 'Tears of the Earth,' where Lilith's emotional delivery elevates the song.
A Touch of Over-Enthusiasm
Despite the album's many strengths, there's a sense of over-indulgence. The record's length, reaching 65 minutes, feels excessive, and some tracks could benefit from tighter editing. While Lilith's performances are often stellar, there are moments where her vocals could be more precise. These issues, however, do not diminish the overall impact of the album.
Final Thoughts
'Ad Pulchram Mortem' is a testament to Soulgrind's enduring passion and creativity. While it may not be a flawless record, it showcases a band unafraid to experiment and push boundaries. With a little more refinement, Soulgrind could create an even more cohesive and impactful work in the future. I, for one, am eager to see what they come up with next.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
Release Date: August 14th, 2026
