Ablaze in Hatred
Closure of Life (Promo) 2005 None
With a name like Ablaze in Hatred, I expected some heavy-duty doom/death, but this new band from Finland seems to have a deceptive name. This self-released promo MCD contains three tracks of doom/death, alright, but it's mid-tempo, melodic, and a bit on the light side. These four guys do it with plodding drums, mid-range growls, melodic riffs and some keyboard support. For some reason, it all sounds a bit 'distinctly Finnish' as well; it might be a hint of Shape Of Despair in there, or the general clean sound which I've heard on some Finnish releases. The first track, 'When the Blackened Candles Shine', is also the best because of its special catchy melody, but the whole MCD is actually pretty good. All of these tracks will be featured on the upcoming full length album, so if you think you might enjoy some mellow, mid-tempo doom/death, I warmly recommend Ablaze in Hatred to you.	1. When the Blackened Candles Shine 2. To Breathe and to Suffocate 3. Constant Stillness Approx. 23 minutes
Reviewed by: Oscar Strik
Deceptive Awareness (CD) 2006 Firedoom
Finland's Ablaze in Hatred delivered a nice demo, 2005's 'Closure of Life', and they've since been signed by Firedoom. 'Deceptive Awareness', from late 2006, is their debut album. It contains the three tracks from the demo, plus several new ones. Actually, my opinion hasn't been changed much by this album, as both Ablaze in Hatred's strong and weak points have remained the same. The band plays quality, well produced death/doom at a slow, though not very, pace. The tracks are based around catchy, melancholic, yet relaxed melodies. 'When The Blackened Candles Shine' is still a stand out track, but the newer 'Ongoing Fall' also manages to please me a lot with its impressive theme and piano backing. At the same time, I feel other tracks lack a bit of excitement here and there, and I still think Ablaze in Hatred lean a bit too much on the sound of other Scandinavian greats. This is something that could be improved. Nevertheless, as a debuting band, Ablaze in Hatred can be proud, as this is a fine achievement. This is recommended to lovers of relaxing, dreamy doom.	1. Lost (The Overture) 2. When The Blackened Candles Shine 3. Howls Unknown 4. Constant Stillness 5. Ongoing Fall 6. To Breathe And To Suffocate 7. Closure Of Life Approx. 52 minutes
Reviewed by: Oscar Strik