The Norwegian melodic power metallers Communic have released their second album "Waves of Visual Decay". The group's debut garnered favourable reviews (mine included) around the globe, so I bet many have high expectations regarding this new album of theirs. After listening to it a few times, I come to the conclusion that the music is rather similar to their debut effort. There are still gripping melodies, groovy rhythms, and intriguing vocal lines. At times there are really good sections, and overall I'd say this is a better record than "Conspiracy in Mind" though I miss the ballads (I would have liked to hear at least one ballad on this record). However, while the music on this album is good, the production isn't. Now that my preferences regarding production and music have slightly changed, I don't regard their debut album quite as highly as I did back in 2005.

It's a shame Communic doesn't get a new producer, since Jacob Hansen isn't exactly the best possible choice. While he's renowned, he still has room for improvement... I regard he should introduce more warmth to his productions. For example, the songs on this record are sterile-sounding yet the bass frequencies are fairly boomy. In addition, the drums have this plastic crackle to them, which doesn't sound too natural. I'm afraid that the production now hinders Communic from making their albums more impressive - I, for one, am an audiophile who appreciates well-produced albums, and those lacking good sounds don't get that much play-time (I seldom return listening to albums that aren't well-produced, since my time is so limited).

All in all, Waves of Visual Decay is pretty much what one can expect from Communic - a good hard-hitting melodic power metal album with some fresh ideas. With a better production and slight honing around the edges of some sections, this album would be great. As such I'm sure it'll appeal to majority of tech-power metal listeners.

Visit Artist's Website


- MAGE (July 23rd, 2006)

« back

LINE-UP:
Stensland, Oddleif: Guitars & Vocals Mortensen, Erik: Bass Andersen, Tor Atle: Drums
Producer:	Hansen, Jacob
Mixing by:	Unavailable
Mastering by:	Unavailable

	TRACKLIST:
	01. Under a Luminous Sky 02. Frozen Asleep in the Park 03. Watching It All Disappear 04. Fooled by the Serpent 05. Waves of Visual Decay 06. My Bleeding Victim 07. At Dewy Prime Length: 57:57