Soulgrind's tenth album, Ad Pulchram Mortem, is a testament to the band's evolution and resilience. With a sixteen-year gap between releases, the album showcases a blend of old and new, a mix of raw and refined. The band's journey began as a gothic act, but they've since experimented with various styles, from gothic black/thrash to harsh vocals, eventually settling on a melodic approach. This album continues that trend, incorporating elements of gothic, black metal, and thrash, all while maintaining a unique and captivating sound.
One of the standout aspects of Ad Pulchram Mortem is the dynamic duo of vocalist Tanya Lilith and keyboardist Azhemin. Lilith's melodic touch and emotionally charged cleans provide a soothing balm to the harsh growls of Azhemin, creating a captivating contrast. Their collaboration is a highlight, with Lilith's beauty balancing Azhemin's beast, as heard on the jaw-dropping finale, "Into the Shadows of Devotion."
However, the album is not without its inconsistencies. The record feels a bit YOLO, with a length that reaches 65 minutes, including an eleven-minute finale. While the compositions are strong, the overall cohesion could be improved. The mid-album tune, "In the Circus of Tuonela," stands out as a potential miss, lacking memorable hooks. Despite this, the album generally works better when Lilith is singing, showcasing her ability to rescue songs that might otherwise be just okay.
In my opinion, Soulgrind's passion and artistry shine through, but the album could benefit from a bit more editing. The band's evolution is evident, and their willingness to experiment is commendable. However, the long hiatus and the resulting rust in consistency are noticeable. I hope Soulgrind can return to the studio and create another work with this level of artistry, but with a little more cohesion. Overall, Ad Pulchram Mortem is a solid addition to their discography, offering a unique blend of styles and a captivating listening experience.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
DR: 8 | Format Reviewed: 320 kbps mp3
Label: Inverse Records (https://inverse-records.myshopify.com/)
Websites: Bandcamp (https://soulgrind.bandcamp.com/album/ad-pulchram-mortem) | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/SoulgrindFinland/)
Releases Worldwide: August 14th, 2026
