Swedish Lake of Tears' 8th album Blackbrickroad is quite a surprise. The band had earlier released a "supposed farewell album" (in 2002) titled as "The Neonai". However, the band decided to reform with the original lineup. This time their sound has less atmophere and more basic (occasionally gothic) metal. Nevertheless, this album wasn't as heavy as I expected.

Songs are quite diverse... I'd say there are slight Paradise Lost influences audible, so musically Blackbrickroad is heavy metal with some gothic and dance/industrial influences. I was favourably impressed with their material on this album, the relistening value is quite good. Especially the melodic end of this record will be imprinted on your mind after you've listened it a few times. To give a picture of the diversity on this record: On Sister Sinister I heard traces of the Gathering (guitar parts), which I didn't expect to hear. Overall, the songs are of even quality.

Production on this album is quite good... There was some occasional distortion audible, but nothing too disturbing. Sounds are quite solid and strong. What's also creditable, is the spacious mix (which gives a nice atmosphere to the record). Unfortunately, the production seems to degrade a little bit towards the end.

Overall Blackbrickroad is quite good record. It's a good buy, if you're a fan of the band or the genre. Although it has some 'pop' flavoured songs, it's still an album to be reckoned with. However, listening before buying is recommended.

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- MAGE (14.09.2004)

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LINE-UP:
Sahlgren, Magnus: Lead Guitar Helgeson, Dan: Organ Rebelius, Stina: Vocals Silver, Ulrika: Vocals Cremonese, Jörgen: Guitar
Producer:	Silver, Christian
Mixing by:	Studio Mega
Mastering by:	Engelmann, Björn

	TRACKLIST:
	01. The Greymen 02. Making Evenings 03. Black Brick Road 04. Dystopia 05. The Organ 06. A Trip With the Moon 07. Sister Sinister 08. Rainy Day Away 09. Crazyman