sixth and the final milestone [2007] in the outstanding career of this highly exceptional and sadly defunct entity sounds as confusing, emotionally charming and dirge-like as ever before: thick Sabbath-like guitar riffs, lush, mesmerizing harmonies are juxtaposed to the musical roots-reminding breakneck stompers, while subtle romanticism, biting sarcasm and a sprawling sense of morbidity are crowned by traditionally provocative lyrics, where the late Peter Steele tackles the death of a close friend, pernicious drug and alcohol abuse, and the natural spirituality, significantly enriched by haunting guest vocal appearance of marvelous Tara VanFlower [Lycia], who effectively helps to blend beauty and darkness together; recent German gatefold sleeve double white vinyl edition comes with a pro-printed lyric insert
