Review of "Intra" by Ram-Zet
The Final Thrill throws us directly into the action, and I’m instantly slammed to the ground by a crunching riff, followed by soaring female vocals and even some violins. The three components I have so far mentioned are rather dominant in Ram-Zet’s present sound (but don’t be fooled into believing this is a goth-metal band), and I for one can find very few traces of electronic elements, if they ever were there at all (I do choose to trust the reviews I did read however). Over the 50 minutes Intra lasts, we’re carried along on a rollercoaster ride of atmospheres and emotions, ranging from the deep, deep tracts of hell with brutal riffing and male growling, to more uplifting, melodic and symphonic bits, something that creates a very diverse soundscape.
Those who know me (and also those who claim to know me), have pretty much grasped my love for albums that has a growing ability. And I believe that’s why I’ve befriended Intra as close as I have, ‘cause this is surely one of those records who seem to have the ability to grow onwards into the sky. Even though I liked what I heard on the first few spins, I still pick up details here and there who take a hold of my interest and increases my love for the album.
On negative points (there always are some), I could have wished for a better production, as the guitar-sound is a tad too muddy for my taste, it doesn’t quite seem to fit the sound of Ram-Zet as they sound today. As a conclusion I guess you can say that I for one am mighty impressed by what Ram-Zet have to offer on this release, and I might even consider checking out their 2 previous releases if this one is atleast only slightly representative of their sound.
Rating: 89/100
Written by Ole Kristian Mastadøy
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