CIRCLE OF FEAR Unleash Gothic Metal Symphony "Deep Emotional Modus Operandi"

"Deep Emotional Modus Operandi" is out now [photo: Circle of Death"

For a band that's taken their name from a HIM song, there's a particular standard of gothic-ness one might expect. Luckily, Argentinian metallers CIRCLE OF FEAR meet the quota, blending thunderous soundscapes with dark, atmospheric melodies. Originally formed as a one-man project conceived for a one-off performance, the band have instead blossomed into something more. The first results of this lie in not-quite-single, not-quite-EP, "Deep Emotional Modus Operandi".

Opening track "Immortal" sees the band start off on all the right footings. There's a lot here to love - the chugging riffs, the soaring atmosphere, the gentle piano decorations. There's little teases of proggier technicalities but it is still largely accessible, something that I can always appreciate. An acoustic guitar comes in around the halfway mark, showcasing the band's ability to play with dynamics, and growled vocals at the end are reminiscent of Elliot Vernon's "The Flame" (which, whilst we're here, is a cracking EP). It's a great start, and a brilliant introduction to what the group has to offer.

"Talking To A Ghost" leans into more traditional gothic metal sound, slower, more sombre. Again, the guitars and piano perfectly complement each other, really helping to push this sense of atmosphere. The ending picks up the pace a little bit, but ultimately ends with that softer edge.

This is a band comprised of members prolific in their respective scene, but it's still great to see them pushing themselves to craft an exciting release. It's always humbling to receive submissions from abroad and overseas, and it makes it all the more worth it when I'm introduced to great music I would otherwise never find.

"Deep Emotional Modus Operandi" is out NOW on streaming