Schaliach - Sonrise (1996)
This is the album, that in my opinion, started it all. The Nordic invasion! Melodic death metal done almost single handedly by the master himself, Ole Børud (now of Extol fame). The only thing Ole didnt do on here is the vocals which are handled quite approriately by Peter Dalbakk. The music is top-notch super-melodic and beautiful. There are 3 instrumentals on here that showcase Ole's expertise in guitar and classical piano. Also included is 9 minute "doom" epic titled "A Fathers Mourning" which tells the tale of the prodigal son as set to an unparralleled musical background. There is some groove element in songs like "You Maintain", but for the most part the music is melodic death akin to bands like In Flames and Paramaecium but yet even more original. The vocals are smooth and in a mid-range death styling. This is an absolute must have cd. -- Review by Norm
Schaliach... great name, great band, great music! This is some of the best music in the style of melodic death metal I have ever heard. I was sure missing out on this and I regret not hearing these guys when they released it. Since I know nothing about this bands background, I guess it would be kinda hard to go into detail about them, so I'll skip that part. Sweden is usually pretty oversaturated right now with all the melodic death metal bands, but this band from Norway gives them all a good run for their money! Lots of harmonies, lots of melodies, but far from happy sounding as alot have become lately. This is as dark as you can get playing this style of music. Musically, I hear traces of modern Therion without the orchestral instruments played on guitar which proves quality musicianship! Other times I hear traces of something Opeth would do as well as Withered Beauty! Amazing stuff. The drums get pretty tricky when varying the beats and the bass holds a good solid rhythm section to make this probably the most powerful album of it's kind. The vocals are that of almost a black metal grim-type growl that I have never heard before, but yet so powerful! All I can say is this band RIPS and hopefully sometime we can hear yet another album from these guys. -- Review by Shannon