Project Hate MCMXCIX

Epic and dynamic, the Project Hate MCMXCIX’s fourth studio album is more intriguing than their moniker and cliché doomsdays references would have you believe. Their unique blend of melodic death metal, techno beats (whether they’re "jungle” or "house” depends on who’s being asked), growling male vocals and clean female vocals makes for a crushing but extremely lengthy post-industrial European blackout. The vocal assault, lead by ex-Entombed bassist Jörgen Sandström, provides the threatening demon growls that dominate the record. The cheese factor presents itself in the recurrence of slower, crooned moments but considering the versatility and passion conveyed in Jo Enckell’s voice, she compliments the dark atmosphere and self-searching nature of the record quite nicely. In the end, these Lacuna Coil moments are more endearing than annoying; an accomplishment by any standards. The lyrical content is heavily focused on good old-fashioned, god-hating blasphemy, lending itself to the heavy black metal undertones already present with the focus on keyboard melodies. They’re extremely apt when it comes to texturing riffs and incorporating subtle complexities, making for an engaging listen and a solid release.