Inglorious Darkness [CD]【Japan Edition w/ OBI】

Gothic Metal icons CREMATORY are an undeniable institution. Now, with more than 30 years in the scene, the band continues to showcase why they are heralded as one of the best of the genre with their new album, Inglorious Darkness, out May 27, 2022 via Napalm Records. After releasing 15 studio albums, three live albums, various compilations and splits, and performing hundreds of headliner shows and festivals around the globe, the band returns to their German roots on the album – not only presenting new songs performed in German, but furthermore, releasing a German version of their trademark track “Tears of Time”, now entitled “Tränen der Zeit”. The pioneering track, originally released on the band’s 1995 stunner Illusions, was an allover gamechanger in the Gothic Metal genre, and now makes its triumphant return on Inglorious Darkness.

Inglorious Darkness is chock full of dark and resonating hymns, setting off with title track “Inglorious Darkness” – a true Gothic Metal anthem and a worthy opener that sets the mood for what’s to come. “Break Down The Walls” hits direct, accented by a gentle melody wrapped in Rockn´Roll Drums that will infiltrate the listener’s brain, and is further solidified by the clean vocals of Felix in the verses mixed with the mighty growls in the chorus. Standout track “Trümmerwelten” lyrically illustrates a dystopian scene, while opulent keyboards build epic melodies to create orchestral, symphonic soundscapes underlined by heavy drumming. Monumental career highlight track “Tränen der Zeit” shines as bright as its original version – one of the highpoints of the band’s famous live shows – but in a modern new light. The band breathes new life into one of their all-time classics, engulfing the listener in melancholy and nostalgia alike reuniting with an old friend. On tracks like “Sound Of My Life” and “Not For The Innocent”, the band’s tried-and-true use of keys and electronic elements are a noted standout, while tracks such as “Das Ende” blaze with headbang-inducing stomping drums and hammering energy as German lyrics further intensify the Gothic Industrial Metal aura. 

With Inglorious Darkness, CREMATORY prove that their passion burns brighter than ever, and that even after more than 30 years, they are solidified as a Gothic Metal genre giant.