PORTRAIT - Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae

Submitted by sherivengeance on Mon, 30/05/2011 - 11:17am

The Swedish juggernaut known as Portrait, has released a mammoth album, Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae, featuring eight unrelenting tracks of fast tempo and groove-laden precision drumming, melodic harmonies and victoriously furious axe work, thundering baselines and the high pitched wails of traditional 80's metal - injected with hits of speed.

Opening with a monstrous track, 'Beast of Fire', the song sets the pace for the whole CD, with each song flowing seamlessly into another, all expertly arranged and composed.

Listeners are taken on a journey of fast, palm muted speed metal riffs and classic guitar solos on behalf of Richard Lagergren and Christian Lindell - remise of Kai Hansen and Michael Weikath's talents.

As for dull moments, there are too few, as the songs are energy driven and consistent, often providing a much needed breather after a tumultuous musical section. It's a rollercoaster ride of light and dark themes, catchy hooks, upbeat tempos - followed on with intense brooding moments - with the care of the solid rhythmic section from drummer Anders Persson and bass guitarist Joel Palvarinne.

Per Karlsson's standout vocal abilities really make this album. One can hear soft, harmonious choral croons, to high pitched shrieks, the sound tempered by characteristics of his tenor range. The full extent of his talent really comes alive on tracks such as ‘The Wilderness Beyond’, ‘Beasts of Fire’ and the nine-minute opus, ‘Der Todesking’.

If you're after something more than just a party album, then get your hands on Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae, because Portrait will become a household name in the speed end of the traditional metal genre.

Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae is out now through Metal Blade Records.

 

Album: Crimen Laesae Majestatis Divinae

Release: May 10, 2011

Track List:

  1. Beast of Fire
  2. Infinite Descension
  3. The Wilderness Beyond
  4. Bloodbath
  5. Darkness Forever
  6. The Nightcomers
  7. The Passion
  8. Der Todesking

Visit: www.portraitband.se

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