In Flames
Black-Ash Inheritance

THE REVIEW

In Flames today are one of the symbols of the inexplicable discord reigning in the narrow-minded opinions of many so-called "metalheads".

So hated for their bewildering experimentalism, yet idolized for the same reason, the Swedes have always stood out for their sonic explorations aimed at opening new musical horizons, while still utilizing patterns that belong to iconic acts of the genre proposed here. And in the end, there's nothing wrong with such choices, because we all know that, one way or another, "everything belongs to something".

This precious mini-album, released in an original shape-format, served as a teaser for that unparalleled masterpiece, packed with melodies full of bitterness and energy, known as "Whoracle". In the opener "Goliaths disarm their Davids", Strömblad and company delight us with a ride endowed with catchy rhythms and unstoppable melodies. Introduced by the brilliance of gentle keyboards, it stretches into a solo reminiscent of heavy-power, followed by the expertly toned screams of Friden. The pleasant "sonic war" in the twin guitars flows pleasingly and elegantly where Gelotte's rhythms expand simple yet pressing.
Truly, the sense of "groove" and immediacy is the strength of the band. "Gyroscope" indulges in a seductive acoustic spin before exploding into a very harmonious mid-tempo. Once again, the singing theatrically tears apart, combining very harsh grunts with a tone that at times ventures into a darker and more guttural approach. The folk obsession of the band's early period sweetens us in "Acoustic medley", a brief episode among gentle classical guitars echoing the melodious leads of "Artifacts of the black rain" from the previous "The Jester Race". A dreamy appetizer before the final storm.

The closing track, in fact, turns out to be the "live" version of one of the combo's most beloved anthems. I am referring to the abrasive "Behind space" from the debut "Lunar Strain", here offered in a version of overwhelming power and malice.
The riffing "burns" agile and precise, Anders' shrieks are slashes of feral brutality while the rhythmic assault shines with black-death dynamism ('At the Gates' as usual..)

A mini representing the constant evolution in the sound of the band that will open new horizons, winning over the opinion of the media and fans hungry for melodic sounds after the Scandinavian death assault of the early nineties. Classy.