This long-awaited release from one of the best Swedish black/death metal acts is simply a masterpiece. In the vein of a more brutal and chaotic version of Dissection, Dawn has managed to compose seven epic songs that ranges from seven to ten minutes long, all of which having a distinct theme as if it were movements in a classical masterpiece. SlaughterSun was recorded and produced at the infamous Abyss studios which enhances Dawn’s sound to a colder, darker, and more chaotic atmosphere while having crisp and clear production. The first thing you’ll notice in this album is the drumming performed by Jocke Pettersson, a very intense and technical drummer, who is comparable to Trym of Emperor fame. Henke Forss’ chaotic vocals compliment the intensity and richness of the music along with the guitar riffs that are heavy yet melodic at the same time with lots of weird time changes and patterns. Keyboards and choir effects are used sparingly in some songs to give it more depth instead of drowning out the music during the experience of the CD. This review alone cannot describe how great of a release this is. All I can say is that this is definitely one of the best brutal, dark, and melodic black/death metal albums of the year that can rank up, but not competing with, Dissection. If one does not have this release and would rather get something else, then you are definitely missing out on one of the greatest albums of ‘98.

Written By: Reggie