Initially, the introduction of two new guitarists to their line-up has massively refreshed their sound and for the first couple of songs Moment really packs a punch with some razor sharp riffs. As the record progresses, however, they lapse back into old habits, switching to gothic style rock, with oddly-placed synths and grating clean vocals. It’s incredibly jarring and makes for a disjointed listening experience when they’re going full throttle one moment only to throw the anchor out the next and completely switch genres.
For long-time fans, who’ve adapted to Dark Tranquillity’s familiar musical pendulum, Moment will be an enjoyable listen, as it’s more of the same theatrical songwriting that the band have perfected over the years. However, therein lies the problem: it’s more of the same and offers nothing you can’t find on any of their previous records.
Verdict: 2/5
For Fans Of: In Flames, At The Gates, Shadows Fall
Moment is released on November 20 via Century Media.
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