Inner Shrine - Pulsar
BakerTeam Records
Gothic/Symphonic Metal
8 songs (45'00'')
Release year: 2013
Reviewed by Jared

Inner Shrine’s fifth album, Pulsar, takes on the concept that we have seen time and time again, depicting a post-apocalyptic world, but with a different approach, clinging on the idea of evolution and change taking place, after a horrid end to the world. Pulsar is a Gothic sounding album, one layered over with symphonic elements that seek to portray the fall of earth in its own unique twist.

Gothic metal doesn't usually make its rounds to me very often. But in the past, I have found pleasure dipping into the sort. Inner Shrine is a more violent and atmospheric version of Gothic metal. The opening track Black Universe begins with a futuristic sounding ambiance, and quickly emerges with a simple beat and a tremolo style picking from the guitar. A bit more tenacious drums arise adjacent to heavier chugs from the guitars, but the keyboards really carry the song forward, like a lot of the songs, giving it the proper post-apocalyptic sound.

The Last Day on Earth becomes a bit tiresome. There is a lot of emphasis on the keyboards with this track making it a bit repetitive with this slower attitude. The main title track Pulsar really picks up the pieces after the slow venture. It’s an extremely fun song filled with a fantastic atmosphere rich attractive sounding chords. Peace Denied may have been one of my favorite tracks on this album. It may tad bit a slower piece, but it delves into more dark corners. The guitar work in particular followed a simple style, but the dark atmospheres they create alongside the keyboards are done well and very memorable.

Pulsar may have been stale in a few areas, but Inner Shrine’s fifth record was a surprisingly pleasing experience. It may not be the strongest sounding Gothic album I have heard, but the symphonic elements used and the overall theme creates a unique atmosphere worthy of leaping into for any fan of gothic music.

Killing Songs :
Black Universe, The Rose in Wind, Pulsar, Peace Denied, Immortal Force
Jared quoted 70 / 100
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