Moonspell

Taking inspiration from Portuguese writer José Luis Peixoto, Moonspell’s latest album presents a literary approach to metal. Mirroring lyrical development, The Antidote’s musical aspects display a more sophisticated direction as well. That in no way means Moonspell have subdued their heavier instincts — the sophistication surfaces in carefully planned demonstrations of restraint and a cohesive overall effect. Though far less over the top than many moments in the band’s past efforts, The Antidote still maintains characteristic Moonspell traits — like Fernando Ribeiro’s growls and deep velvety croon, or the familiar atmosphere of brooding darkness, embroidered with explorations in morbidity (check out the call and answer play of "A Walk on the Darkside” or opener "In and Above Men”). Emphasising the band’s literary jaunt, the disc comes with multimedia chapters from Peixoto’s book, plus the video for "Everything Invaded.”