AVATARIUM
Between You, God, The Devil And The Dead AFM
Doom rockers in God-like form on sixth record
Initially starting out life as a side-project from now-departed Candlemass bassist Leif Edling, Swedish doom-mongers Avatarium have steadily evolved to become their own monster over the years. Currently helmed by singer Jennie-Ann Smith and guitarist Marcus Jidell, their sixth album sees them re-embracing their heavier roots and infusing proceedings with a hefty dose of soul. A powerful and poetic album that doesn’t pull punches emotionally or musically, it’s loaded with sky-cracking riffs, lyrics about the meaning of life and dramatic, Dio-esque vocals. The mini-rock opera My Hair Is On Fire (But I’ll Take Your Hand) is a showstopper, while the meaty, melodic and Deep Purple-peppered Being With The Dead is their best track to date. ■■■■■■■■■■