Eleven albums deep, these Norwegian gothic metal staples continue to astound. 1977 serves up Sirenia’s signature combination of groovy structures, intense melodrama, enchantress vocals and staggering symphonic soundscapes. Theatricality dominates, from the apocalyptic hopelessness of Fading To The Deepest Black, to Ocean’s Away’s spectacle of gorgeous sorrow. Much like on 2021’s Riddles, Ruins & Revelations, Sirenia have spiced things up with an electronic edge. Wintry Heart’s fluttering synths are a delight, while The Setting Darkness is a glistening burst of what can only be described as symphonic metal’s answer to Abba. The balance of solemn introspection and sharp synthwave remains throughout, Emmanuelle Zoldan’s deep, emotive vocals offering a haunting send-off on the bonus cover of Tanita Tikaram’s Twist In My Sobriety. ■■■■■■■□□□