BLACK SWAN - When The Angels Of Twilight Dance (DIGIPAK CD)

Emerging from the late '90s wave of melodic and symphonic black metal, Black Swan delivered a compelling yet overlooked gem with When the Angels of Twilight Dance. While many bands from this era quickly faded into obscurity, this album remains a testament to the strength of its songwriting, blending the ferocity of black metal with a keen sense of melody and atmosphere.

At its core, the album is built around dynamic, guitar-driven compositions that effortlessly balance aggression and harmony. The riffing style leans heavily on tremolo-picked leads and chord-driven progressions, delivering a distinctly blackened sound while incorporating an underlying melodic sensibility. The presence of keyboards is particularly well-handled, serving to enhance the music’s emotive qualities rather than overpowering it with symphonic excess. Vocally, the album sticks to a classic rasp, maintaining a consistency that complements the music’s cold, nocturnal aura.

Among the standout moments, Under Cloak and Hood is an undeniable highlight, with its soaring keyboard melodies and an expertly crafted chorus that lingers in the mind long after the album ends. Elsewhere, tracks build upon mid-paced grooves punctuated by occasional bursts of speed, keeping the pacing varied without veering into chaotic territory. The production is crisp for its time, striking a balance where every instrument—yes, even the bass—is clearly audible, adding weight to the album’s immersive atmosphere.

While the album thrives on its strong melodic sensibility, its main drawback lies in its uniformity. The tracks, while individually effective, adhere to a similar structure and stylistic approach, which may lead to a sense of repetition over time. Still, the consistency in quality ensures that the album remains engaging, with each listen revealing subtle nuances within the compositions.

Ultimately, When the Angels of Twilight Dance is a hidden relic from an era where melody and darkness walked hand in hand. For those who appreciate the more atmospheric and refined side of black metal, this is well worth seeking out. If you can get your hands on a copy, don’t let it slip away.