October Tide
A Thin Shell
Rating
Style: Doom Metal
Release date: 11 October, 2010
Playing time: 42:14
 

It is interesting to know that October Tide originated in 1995, got to release two albums before year 2000, and to hear what has happened since then. Those interested in the musicians Jonas Renkse and Fredrik Norrman must know that they have had a career with Katatonia and that the latter is the guitarist and remaining main actor behind OT.
It is difficult not to consider OT's first two releases as treasures resulting from the temporary break Katatonia had. The main reason why the band's public profile has been low is that the founders of the band resolutely refused to go public, which has granted them an underground status.

The result of this course of events and choices is A thin shell, characteristic clear, light doom with many finesses. The music shows a certain link between the two bands, as both bear the same melodic character, A thin shell being more doomish and deep down than what I know of Katatonia. This is an elegant piece of music, at first listening not necessarily a record that is going to stand the test of time, but one that still grows on one after a while. My favourite: Fragile with its Paradise Lost's Icon features.

OT has come to a new age and I can very well imagine them at festivals, so book them if you still can!


Tracklist
1. A Custodian of Science (7:33)
2. Deplorable Request (6:03)
3. The Nighttime Project (4:32)
4. Blackness Devours (5:15)
5. The Dividing Line (5:43)
6. Fragile (6:35)
7. Scorned (6:33)
Label: Candlelight Records
Distribution: Plastic Head Music
Artwork rating: 80/100
Reviewed by: LyM
Date: 28 March, 2011
Website: octobertide.net